Copyright & Register Your Music

1. 1. Create a copyright notice:

   While not required, including a copyright notice (© [Year] [Your Name/Copyright Holder]) on your music can help demonstrate your awareness of copyright law. 

2. 2. Register your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office: 

   • Choose the appropriate application form (usually a Standard Application for individual songs or a Group Registration for albums). 

   • Provide the necessary information, including the title of your work, author(s) and copyright claimant(s), and the date of first publication (if applicable). 

   • Pay the required fee. 

   • Upload a copy of your work (e.g., a digital file of your song). 

   • Submit your application. 

   • Visit the Copyright Office (.gov) website and create an account or log in to the Electronic Copyright Office (eCO) Registration System. 

Performing Rights Organization (PRO) Registration:

• 1. Choose a PRO:

  ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC are the major PROs in the United States. 
   

• 2. Join as a writer or publisher:

  You'll need to register with a PRO as a writer or publisher (or both if you are self-published). 
   

• 3. Register your works:

  Provide the PRO with information about your songs, including the title, writers, publisher, and any co-writer information. 
   

• 4. Consider registering with the MLC:

  If you want to get paid by digital music services, you'll need to register your works with the MLC, which is responsible for administering the blanket license under the Music Modernization Act. 
  
  Remember to

• Keep supporting documentation:

• Keep records of your songwriting process, including demos, lyrics, and any contracts or agreements with collaborators.