How to register music with the US copyright Office
Result
Get your songs officially copyrighted and protected with the US Copyright Office -- electronically.
Overview
You immediately have a copyright in a song as soon as you record it, but to get additional benefits under US statutory law, you can register your songs with the US Copyright office. Here are step by step instructions to file your songs and recordings electronically.
Related Categories: Copyright
Estimated Preparation time: 10 minutes
Estimated Result Time: 2-6 Months
Estimated Cost: Low
What You Need to Do This:
- A WAV or MP3 of your song (alternatively, a copy of it on CD)
- A payment method
Directions
1. Click here and create a user account at Copyright.gov.
2. Choose "Register a Claim".
3. If you are registering a copyright in the sound recording, choose "Sound Recording".
By registering a copyright in the sound recording, you're making a claim that you own that recording of the song -- not the song iteself (i.e. the lyrics and music). If you own both the sound recording and the song, then you should register both.
4. If you are registering a copyright in the song, choose "Work of the Performing Arts".
By registering your song under the "Performing Arts", you're making a claim that you own the song (i.e. the lyrics and music). Registering the song is separate than the sound recording. If you own both the song and the sound recording, then you should register both.
5. Follow the online instructions carefully to complete your registration.
6. Submit your payment.
7. Submit a copy of your song and/or sound recording
The registration system offers you a choice - you can upload a WAV or MP3 of your song (other formats are accepted as well) or mail in a copy (which costs more and takes more time). You can also submit multiple files if needed.
8. Sit back and wait.
Once registered, you will receive your copyright certificate evidencing your claim within 2-6 months. Now that you have an account you can check the status of your work, as well as a listing of every copyright you registered online.
What should I do next?
References
- The Indie Band Survival Guide
- The DIY Music Manual
- US Copyright Office
- Electronic Copyright Office
- eCopyright FAQ
- eCopyright Tutorial
- eCopyright Tips - submitting multiple files
- Copyright Royalty Board