The cast of Jersey Shore is so dissatisfied over their contract situation that they refused to shoot scenes for the upcoming third season until they get a better deal … this according to sources connected with the show.

The cast was supposed to begin shooting “at home” scenes today for season three, but we’re told JWoww, Ronnie, Sammi, Pauly D and Vinny — who are spread out between New York and Rhode Island — told the crews they weren’t shooting without new contracts.

Each “cast member” make about $10,000 per episode…just FYI…

But wait! What about Snooki and The Situation? TMZ has the whole story!