How to Get a Copyright

Obtaining a copyright for your creative works is easier than what you might think. All it takes are a few clicks of a mouse, and a printer and you are well on your way to having your work copyrighted and recognized by the Library of Congress with its own registration certificate. Below are some simple guidelines to follow in order to get a copyright.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Print off a copy of the registration form which is available on the Copyright Office web site. The form will be in PDF format. Simply download the form and then print it off. Keep the download saved to your computer, that way if you need another form later on, you will have it readily available.

2. Complete the form and include a check or money order for the appropriate registration fee. The fee will be listed on the web site with the form. The fee will differ depending on if you register online or through the federal mail system.

3. Submit a printed copy of the work with your registration form. The copy of the work will not be returned to you, but will be kept by the copyright office.

4. Submitting your material under a pen name is acceptable, however, you must specify that the name is artificial on the application form. Be sure to list all names under which you have written for all applicable works.

5. Expect a response and certificate of registration from the copyright office within 6 to 8 months after submitting the form and your work. However, if you register online, then you may get a response and a certificate of registration more quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you have created the work, it is copyright protected. However, to gain infringement protection, you must register the work as a matter of public record. You must submit a printed copy of the work, you cannot submit CDs or flash drives. You can submit more than one work at a time, but each will take a separate registration form. However, if you submit a collection of works, the works as a whole can be copyrighted under one registration certificate.
• If your registration for copyright is denied, the work that you submitted will remain property of the copyright office and U.S. government.

Resources

• Copyright Web Site

[flosslounge]

on 2/7/2009 How do you find if a certain word is copyrighted. The word i have in mind is "floss"