Copyright
Copyright: Why Registering Your Songs Is Worth It
Your song is copyrighted the moment it's fixed — but registration is what gives you real power to enforce it.
Automatic, but limited
Under U.S. law, copyright exists as soon as a song is recorded or written down. However, you generally must register with the U.S. Copyright Office before you can sue for infringement.
The benefits of registering
Registering within three months of release (or before infringement) can make you eligible for statutory damages and attorney's fees — often the difference between a case worth pursuing and one that isn't.
How to do it
File online at copyright.gov. Use Form SR to register the sound recording and the underlying song together when you own both. Fees are modest compared to the protection.
Key Takeaways
- Copyright is automatic; enforcement requires registration
- Register within 3 months of release
- Form SR can cover song + recording
For More Insight
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Sources
CHI Entertainment Network provides general educational information and does not provide legal, tax, financial or professional advice.