The copyright owner holds the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute copies (for sale or otherwise), publicly perform or display, and create derivative works based on the copyrighted material. They also have the authority to grant others permission to do these activities.

Typically, copyright protection lasts for the creator’s lifetime plus an extra 70 years. For works created for hire, anonymously, or under a pseudonym, copyright lasts for 95 years from the first publication or 120 years from creation, whichever occurs first. If the work was published before 1978, these time periods may differ.

While your work is under copyright protection as soon as it’s created, there are many benefits to registering a copyright. You’ll establish a public record of the copyright, and get a certificate of registration. You also may be able to sue infringers for statutory damages and attorney’s fees—not just actual damages and profits, which can be harder to prove. And if you register before or within 5 years of publication, you’ll establish strong evidence in court that the copyright is valid.

If your work has not been published, we will require one complete copy. If it has been published, we will need two copies. Once you complete your order, we will provide you with detailed instructions.

Yes, the U.S. Copyright Office will mail you a certificate of registration, typically within 8-12 months.