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How to Copyright a Written Song for Free

According to the United States Copyright Office, the moment you create a written song it is protected under copyright. Creation occurs when you fix a song in a tangible form, such as by making a recording or writing down its lyrics. You can copyright a written song for free by making a physical representation of it and including a notice of copyright.

Things You'll Need

  • Pen/Marker
  • Recording apparatus
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Instructions

    • 1

      Record the music, melody and/or lyrics of your song. If you have only written lyrics to your song, skip to Step 4.

    • 2

      Transfer your recording to a physical medium, such as to a CD or tape.

    • 3

      Write a copyright symbol or the word "Copyright," the song's year of creation and your name on CD or tape.

    • 4

      Write your song's lyrics in a notebook or on a computer and include a copyright symbol or the word "Copyright," the song's year of creation and your name.

    • 5

      Optionally, mail a copy of your song to yourself to postmark it and establish its date of creation.

Songs & Lyrics

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