STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO REGISTER YOUR COPYRIGHT

1 min read

Step 1: Prepare Your Work

Before you begin the registration process, make sure your work is complete and ready for submission.

What You Need: A digital copy of your music (e.g., MP3, WAV), album artwork, lyrics, and any other related material.
Format: Ensure your files are in a compatible digital format.

Step 2: Create an Account with the U.S. Copyright Office

To register your copyright, you need to create an account with the U.S. Copyright Office.

Website: Go to the U.S. Copyright Office eCO System.
Account Creation: Click on "Log in to eCO" and then select "New User? Register Now!" Follow the prompts to create your account.

Step 3: Start a New Registration

Once you have an account, you can begin the registration process.

Login: Log in to your eCO account.
New Claim: Click on "Register a New Claim" under the "Copyright Registration" section.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Fill out the application form with the necessary details about your work.

Type of Work: Select "Sound Recording" if you’re registering a song or album. If you're registering lyrics separately, choose "Work of the Performing Arts."
Title: Enter the title of your work.
Authors: Provide the names of all contributors (songwriters, composers, producers).
Claimants: Enter the name(s) of the copyright claimant(s). This is usually the same as the author(s), but it can be different if rights have been transferred.
Rights and Permissions: Provide contact information for the person or entity responsible for permissions related to the work.

Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee

The U.S. Copyright Office charges a fee for registering your work.

Fee: The fee varies based on the type of work and registration method. As of the latest update, the fee for an online single application is $45.
Payment: Pay the fee online using a credit card or electronic funds transfer.

Step 6: Upload Your Work

After payment, you will need to upload a digital copy of your work.

Upload: Follow the instructions to upload your files. Ensure all required materials are included.
Confirmation: Verify that your files have been successfully uploaded.

Step 7: Review and Submit

Carefully review all the information you’ve entered.

Review: Double-check for accuracy and completeness.
Submit: Once you are satisfied, submit your application.

Step 8: Receive Confirmation

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email from the U.S. Copyright Office.

Confirmation Email: This email will include your case number and a confirmation of your submission.

Step 9: Wait for Processing

The processing time for copyright registration can vary.

Processing Time: It typically takes several months to receive your certificate of registration.
Check Status: You can check the status of your application through your eCO account.

Step 10: Keep Your Records

Once your copyright is registered, keep all related documents and records in a safe place.

Certificate of Registration: When you receive your certificate, store it securely.
Digital Copies: Keep digital copies of your registration and confirmation emails.

By following these steps, you can successfully register your copyright and protect your music legally. Taking this action helps ensure that your creative work remains under your control and that you are properly credited and compensated for your artistry.