Buzz
When you produce an original written piece, you automatically acquire certain property rights in that creation. These entitlements, termed 'copyright,' are inherently linked to specific works. If your creation is eligible for copyright, it becomes copyrighted as soon as it is 'fixed.' No further action is required to secure legal protections. Nevertheless, there might be compelling reasons to formally register your copyright for long-term safeguarding.
Steps
Comprehending Copyright Law
Understand the rationale behind copyright. The principal objective of copyright law is to foster the advancement of science and useful arts. By granting you a temporary monopoly over your work, copyright laws aim to stimulate the dissemination of knowledge, whether scientific or otherwise. This encourages creators to continue generating new ideas.
- Thus, while copyright law does afford you and fellow creators protection for your existing works, its fundamental aim is to inspire the ongoing expression of fresh concepts.
Revamp your initial work to meet copyright standards. To fix your work for copyright, it must be expressed in a tangible form perceptible by human senses, either directly or with the aid of a machine. It should be stable enough for perception, reproduction, or communication for a period longer than transitory.
Understand the boundaries of your copyrighted work. Certain works or aspects cannot be copyrighted, including ideas, facts, expired copyrights, and works of the U.S. Government. Copyright extends to descriptions of systems but not to the systems themselves.
Know when your work is copyrighted. Copyright protection attaches as soon as your work is fixed. Registration is voluntary but may be necessary for legal action against infringers. Early registration offers additional rights.
Explore outdated U.S. copyright formalities. Before 1989, notice was required for copyright protection, typically the copyright symbol followed by publication date and author's name. Lack of proper notice resulted in immediate loss of copyright.
Copyright Registration
Fill out an application. To register your copyright, complete an application either online or by mail with the United States Copyright Office. Online registration is recommended for ease and efficiency. Follow the prompts on the eCO website to answer questions and finalize your application.
Submit the necessary payment. After completing your application, proceed to checkout where you'll be required to pay a fee based on your registration preferences. Fees range from $35 to $400 depending on the type of registration.
Provide the registered work. Alongside your application, submit a copy of your writing to the Copyright Office. Online, you'll be prompted to upload your writing after paying the fee.
Anticipate processing time. Expect a response from the Copyright Office approximately eight months after submission. Upon successful processing, your writing will be officially registered.
