One of the most important questions athletes and families should ask before signing with an NIL agent is simple: How do you get paid?

The way your agent earns money affects your bottom line, the structure of your deals, and even the advice you receive. Understanding commissions, retainers, and transparency is key to making sure your partnership is fair.

Commissions: The Most Common Approach

Most NIL agents are paid through commissions, which means they earn a percentage of the deals they negotiate for you.

How it works:

• Commission rates often range from 10% to 20% of your NIL earnings.

• The agent only gets paid if you get paid.

• If you have multiple deals, they may earn commissions on each.

Pros:

• No upfront costs—you pay only when you make money.

• Strong incentive for the agent to bring you deals.

Cons:

• Commission percentages can eat into your earnings.

• Without clarity, disputes may arise over what “counts” as commissionable.

Retainers: A Flat Fee Approach

Some agents charge a retainer fee, which is a set amount you pay regularly (monthly or quarterly) in exchange for their services.

How it works:

• You pay a flat fee whether or not new deals come in.

• Retainers may cover contract review, brand outreach, or ongoing management.

Pros:

• Predictable cost—you know exactly what you’ll pay.

• May make sense if you expect consistent opportunities.

Cons:

• You could pay even if deals are slow.

• May not motivate the agent to hustle for new opportunities.

Hybrid Models: Commission + Retainer

Some agents use a hybrid structure, charging both a small retainer and a reduced commission. This can balance predictability for the athlete with incentives for the agent.

Before agreeing to this setup, make sure you understand exactly how each part is calculated.

Other Costs to Watch For

Beyond commissions and retainers, ask about:

• Marketing or branding fees – Some agents charge for photoshoots, websites, or PR.

• Travel or expense reimbursements – Clarify whether you’re expected to cover their costs.

• Third-party referrals – If they connect you with financial advisors, lawyers, or tax pros, make sure there’s no hidden referral fee.

Transparency Is Non-Negotiable

A trustworthy NIL agent will explain their fee structure clearly and put it in writing. If they avoid specifics or pressure you to sign without details, that’s a red flag.

Key questions to ask:

• What’s your exact commission rate or retainer fee?

• Do you get paid on gross or net income?

• Are there any extra fees I should know about?

• Can I see everything in the contract before signing?

Final Takeaway

NIL agents get paid in different ways, but your relationship should always be built on clarity and transparency. Understanding commissions, retainers, and hybrid models helps you avoid surprises and ensures your agent is motivated to act in your best interest.

At NIL Agent Directory, we encourage athletes and families to compare agents side by side—including how they get paid—so you can choose the representation that works best for you.