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How to Register Album Tracks & Artwork

When registering any claim with the copyright office, it is important to know which claim to fill out. In the case of music, you will be registering either a "Sound Recording" or "Performing Arts Work." Registering a "Sound Recording" means you only own the recorded version of that song, not the song itself. Registering a "Performing Arts Work" means you own the lyrics and music of the song. "Performing Arts Work" registration also allows you to register the original artwork with the song or album.

Things You'll Need

  • Payment
  • CD with songs and Artwork
  • WAV or MP3 files
  • JPEG or GIF files
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Instructions

  1. Online Registration

    • 1

      Go to www.copyright.gov.

    • 2

      Click on "eCO," the Electronic Copyright Office.

    • 3

      Create an account.

    • 4

      Click "Register a Claim."

    • 5

      Follow the instructions to fill out the form. Be sure to select "Sound Recording," "Performing Arts Work," or both. You can register an entire album and artwork with one form as long as you upload it all together.

    • 6

      Pay the fee. It's now $35 per registry. You can register an entire album and artwork with one form.

    • 7

      Upload your songs, lyrics and artwork.

    • 8

      You will receive a certificate for your claim within six months.

    Mail-in Registration

    • 9

      Go to www.copyright.gov.

    • 10

      Click on the "Registration" tab.

    • 11

      Download the registration form.

    • 12

      Fill out the registration form on your computer. The Copyright Office does not accept handwritten forms. Be sure to check "Sound Recording," "Performing Arts Work" or both, depending on what you are registering.

    • 13

      Print the registration when you've completed it.

    • 14

      Mail the registration, your payment and the CD with the songs, lyrics and artwork to the Copyright Office.

    • 15

      You will receive a certificate in the mail that evidences your claim within six months.

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