There are a number of businesses that offer to help you obtain your copyright registration—for a fee, of course, and often an exorbitant one.
The process is not difficult, not costly, and generally not that time consuming either. You can accomplish it either online (costs $35) or by submitting paper forms (costs $65).
Here’s how:
- Go to copyright.gov
- At the center top of this page is a link titled “How to register a work.” This link leads to a page that explains the benefits of filing online, and offers links to further info such as acceptable file types, tips, FAQs, and tutorials.
- To register online, you will have to establish an account with the electronic copyright office (eCO). Click on the eCO login link on the home page. You’ll find it directly below “How to Register a Work.”
- Once you have your account established, you will be directed to the home page for your account. This page includes a number of links for tasks you may want to complete, including registering a copyright.
- On the left of the page are three sections: Check Registration Case Status, Copyright Registration, and Additional Copyright Services. You will find “Register a new claim” under Copyright Registration. Click this link and follow the instructions.
And you’re done! You’ll receive your Certificate of Registration from the Library of Congress. Current processing time for online filing is 2.8 months.
- To register via paper forms, you’ll find the correct form on the “How to” page. There are different forms depending on the type of work, i.e. literary, visual arts, sound recordings, etc. Download the file and follow the instructions. Processing time for paper filing is 5.5 months.
Do you have a question about this process? Submit it in the comments and I’ll do my best to find an answer it.
Debra L. Butterfield © 2013