The Basics About Copyright Registration

• In completing an application form to register a claim to copyright, it is important to give clear and accurate information.
• Applications of extremely poor quality will not be accepted. In completing your application form, therefore, use a typewriter with a good ribbon or print all information (except your signature) clearly with a pen in black ink. Do not use a pencil or colored pens (blue, green, red, etc.).
• If the application you use is a photocopy or a computer printout, make sure that it is clear, legible, and on a good quality of 8 1/2-inch by 11-inch white paper.
• Any two-page forms must be printed head to head on a single sheet of paper so that when you turn the sheet over, the top of page 2 is directly behind the top of page 1.
• Do not enlarge or reduce the size of the form.
• If you use the fill-in-forms online forms may be printed with either a laser or inkjet printer. However, inkjet printer copies of the forms require enlarging if you use the Shrink to Fit Page option, so don't use it.
• To avoid damage to your deposit caused by necessary security measures, package the following items in boxes rather than envelopes for mailing to the Copyright Office: electronic media such as audiocassettes, videocassettes, CDs, and DVDs, microform, photographs, slick advertisements, color photocopies, and other print items that are rubber-and vegetable-based.
• Always submit the best edition of your work as your deposit.

See - Registering Different Types of Works

To learn how to apply for copyright registration for your type of work.

Have More Questions?

• Frequently Asked Questions About Copyrights
• Frequently Asked Questions About The US Copyright Office

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