Copyright Information
Are you a songwriter that desires to have your songs protected by law? The laws that were amended in 1979 and then again in 1998 have made it easier for you to do so. The law states that once a song is put into a tangible form (cassette, CD or sheet music) it is protected by the law. However, you are encouraged to put the word, copyright, or its symbol © along with your name and year that it was completed somewhere on the product. (Example: Copyright Jane Doe 2009)
That is the first step and you are protected by law should you stop there. But it is not suggested that you do so if you intend to have your songs printed, recorded or published. Further protection comes when you register your song through the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., for it gives you a certificate of ownership. This involves your applying through their office, sending them a copy of your composition and a check for the copyright fee. Currently this fee is $35.00 for an online application and $50.00 to apply by mail. Forms can be downloaded or applications made online at www.copyright.gov.
That is the first step and you are protected by law should you stop there. But it is not suggested that you do so if you intend to have your songs printed, recorded or published. Further protection comes when you register your song through the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., for it gives you a certificate of ownership. This involves your applying through their office, sending them a copy of your composition and a check for the copyright fee. Currently this fee is $35.00 for an online application and $50.00 to apply by mail. Forms can be downloaded or applications made online at www.copyright.gov.
