What do I need my co-performers to sign? What is a 2257 form?

 

In the United States, producers of sexually explicit visual content are legally required under 18 U.S.C. § 2257 to verify performer age using government-issued identification and maintain records documenting that verification. These records must be retained and made available for inspection as required by law. 

A separate model release or performer consent agreement is not mandated by §2257, but is commonly used for licensing and contractual purposes. A model release serves as a legal agreement granting permission to use and distribute the performer’s image and likeness, protecting the producer and downstream distributors from claims related to consent, privacy, or publicity rights.

Producers outside the United States are not automatically subject to §2257 solely because production occurs abroad. However, if sexually explicit content is distributed, sold, or otherwise enters U.S. commerce, the producer — and in some cases secondary distributors — may be required to comply with §2257 record-keeping requirements.

 

You are the producer and you are required to maintain these documents under US law.  You can learn about this law by researching 18 U.S. Code § 2257.

However, as of October 15th of 2022 you are required also to supply these documents to us, per Mastercard's requirements for adult merchants, or you can choose to document consent of your performers using our consent center.  A number of related FAQ documents can be found which will guide you on how to use this consent center.

Looking for a template for 2257 or a model release? We recommend Sophie Ladder's model releases and templates: https://sophieladder.com/files/