Copyright Laws

How to Secure a Copyright

Copyright Secured Automatically upon Creation

The way in which copyright protection is secured is frequently misunderstood. No publication or registration or other action in the Copyright Office is required to secure copyright.

WHAT IS A COPYRIGHT?

Copyright is a form of protection provided by the laws of the United States (title 17, U.S. Code) to the authors of "original works of authorship," including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual works. This protection is available to both published and unpublished works.

To read further on these laws, please visit the US government site: http://lcweb.loc.gov/copyright/circs/circ01.pdf

However, it is highly advised that you secure a copyright through the US Copyright Office. All information regarding obtaining copyrights, fees, etc., can be found at http://www.copyright.gov/.