Copyright Laws: How Do I Apply for a Copyright?

Question: Copyright Laws: How Do I Apply for a Copyright?

Copyright Tip: Remember, it is only a tangible expression that can be copyrighted; an idea or thought that is in your head is generally not something that can be protected.

Answer: For most common and simple works created by individuals, the process of registering a copyright is relatively simple and inexpensive.

Research the Copyright Process

There are slightly different requirements (and forms) for filing various materials to be copyrighted. Be sure you understand which category your work falls into.

• Check to See if Something is Already Copyrighted
• Copyright Law and Policy
• Read Fact Sheets About a Specific Copyright Subject

Get an Application

There are certain requirements for printing an application, including restrictions on printers (no dot matrix) and using both sides of a sheet of paper. Be sure to read these requirements before printing forms and paper applications.

• Print the Appropriate Form
• Online Application

You can also request forms by mail or by phone (202) 707-9100 (Washington, D.C., EST) to request forms.

Determine Your Fee

Be sure to check the U.S. Copyright Office for a complete list of fees. As of July 1, 2007, the basic application fees for registering a copyright:

• Online basic filing fee: $35.00
• Paper application filing fee: $45.00

Check payments (if you mail an application) should be made out to “Register of Copyrights.”

Submit an Application

There are two ways to file for a basic copyright. You can file a paper application or an application online.

• Online, and
• Paper Applications

Submitting a Paper Application for a Copyright

Put into one, sealed envelope, the following documents:

1. Completed Application
2. Check Made Payable to “Register of Copyrights”
3. Copies of Your Mandatory Deposits (see below)

Mail everything to:
Library of Congress
Copyright Office
Attention: 407 Deposits
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20559-6000

Your copyright takes effect the day that the package is received at the above address.

Mandatory Deposit Requirements

You are required by U.S. law (section 407) to submit two (2) copies (called “deposit copies”) of the best edition of every copyrightable work published within three (3) months of publication. This step is not optional, but a mandatory requirement of the registered copyright process.

Send deposit copies to:
Library of Congress
Copyright Office
Attention: 407 Deposits
101 Independence Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20559-6000

How to Contact the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

U.S. Patent and Trademark Website: http://www.uspto.gov

24-Hour Technical & General Support: 1 800 786-9199 or 571-272-1000. Technical Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (select option # 3); General Support is available Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM through 8:00 PM (except federal holidays).

TTY: 571-272-9950