Register a copyright to protect your creative work, stay in control of how it's used, and take action against infringement. Starts at $114 + filing fees.
Register my copyright
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Protect your work
You can create confidently, knowing your work is protected against infringement.
Enhance your rights
Get official proof that you have the exclusive rights to your work, and the power to grant those rights to others.
Put an end to any infringement
Go on record as the copyright owner, and gain the ability to sue if someone uses your work without permission.
Protects
Doesn't protect
Songs
Photos
Art
Films
And other creative work that's tangible (written, recorded, etc.)
Brand names and slogans.
Try a trademark.
Inventions and product designs.
Consider a patent.
Ideas only (not in a tangible form)
Protects
Books
Songs
Photos
Art
Films
And other creative work that's tangible (written, recorded, etc.)
Doesn't protect
Brand names and slogans.
Try a trademark.
Inventions and product designs.
Consider a patent.
Ideas only (not in a tangible form)
Want to check out example documents? See samples
Copyright registration
$114+ federal filing fees
Get started
- Electronic filing of your application with the U.S. Copyright Office
- Delivery confirmation when the Library of Congress receives a copy of your work
Learn more
- What are the rights of a copyright owner?
The owner of a copyright has the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute copies (for sale or otherwise), publicly perform or display, or create derivative works of the copyrighted work. They also have the right to authorize others to do the same.
- How long does a copyright last?
Generally, copyright protection lasts the entire lifetime of the creator, plus an additional 70 years. For work that was made for hire, anonymously, or using a pseudonym, copyright protection lasts for 95 years from the year of first publication or 120 years from the year of creation (whichever comes first). If the work was first published before 1978, these timeframes can vary.
- Why should I register a copyright?
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.
- Do I need to provide a copy of my creative work?
Yes, we'll need one complete copy of your work if it has not yet been published, and two copies if your work has been published. We'll give you detailed instructions once you complete your order.
- Will I receive anything after I register my copyright?
Yes, the U.S. Copyright Office will mail you a certificate of registration, typically within 8-12 months.
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My copyright request was smooth sailing! In a timely fashion, the filing process was finished. I appreciated the way LegalZoom kept me informed and let me know when to expect the copyright certificate.Linda P.
Lagrange, KY
Outstanding! The copyright was easy to do and reasonably priced. Everyone I talked to was polite, professional, and helpful. What more could you want?Frederick M.
Bremerton, WA
Very helpful and patient with me. LegalZoom streamlined the process and took the worries of copyrighting onto their shoulders. We discussed issues that arose, and I have learned a lot from them and their team of independent attorneys.Mary B.
City of Central, LA
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