Professional dancers on Dancing with the Stars are reported to start with a salary of around $1,200 per week. Their pay increases as they advance through the competition, with the cap for a professional dancer's earnings in a season said to be about $100,000. They are guaranteed payment for a certain number of weeks, and those who reach the finale receive payment for the entire season plus a bonus, although there is no larger paycheck specifically for winning. The exact amounts professionals earn are less publicly documented than celebrity contestants, who start with a base salary of about $125,000 for the rehearsal phase and initial weeks. The pay increases for participants and pros who stay longer in the competition. The contracts and payments can vary among professionals, and their pairings are decided without their input. In summary:

• Starting pay for pros: approximately $1,200 per week
• Salary increases with progression in the show
• A professional can earn up to $100,000 per season
• Guaranteed payment for a minimum number of weeks
• Bonus payments for reaching the finale
• No direct large sum rewards for winning but prestige and a trophy

This reflects the general compensation structure for pros on DWTS, though specifics may vary with different contracts and seasons.