Swear to God, worrying about the copyright and how to do it stressed me out more than writing the 100 page history book and the year's worth of research that went into it. Thank God I found this video lol.
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
Thank you so much! I was going to publish a book on Amazon and when it asked about copyright I thought, “Wait a minute, I better address this!” You are the best, concise and strait to the point. ❤
@@miamichelleabad5821 nice! And How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
Wow! This sounds waaay easier than "poor man's copywrite". I've been working on a story in my head since I was 17, and have only drawn original characters. Artists would tell m about poor man's copywrite and how I would have to mail everything to myself. That sounds tedious. But thanks again for this video, now I'm not so weary about copywriting my story and OCs.
At 1:48, you said that you need to specify the name of the person who is filing the claim. Suppose you don't want to use your real name as the author of the book. If that is the case: 1. When making a copyright claim, is it legal to use the pen name that you chose or do you have to use your real name? 2. When filing the claim at the copyright website, would you use your pen name in some fields (e.g. author) and your real name in other fields (e.g. claimant or correspondent)?
Ughhh! That's a good question. So which did you choose ? Did you ever find out. I hope everything turned out great for you. I'm on my way but this has wrecked my nerves lol
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
Thank you for the informative video! Do you submit the book as a PDF with the front cover and back cover as part of the document? I tried to copyright one of my books a few years back and followed all steps as you outlined (I think), submitted the work as PDF containing cover art and then never received a copyright certificate. It seemed to have gotten lost in the shuffle. I have successfully copyrighted music using the same website several times. Anyway, just wondering about your experience with submission format and maybe how long it takes before you hear back from LoC with a certificate of copyright? Thank you!
This is great information! I was also wondering about if I created my own publishing company, would I do anything differently at all? Or would I still use my individual information on everything? Thanks!
Thank you! This is so straightforward and you took all the stress out of it. What if my book is already published and I would like to register a claim after the fact?
Kind of a technical question here but I have written a script for a comic book, can/should I submit copyright at time of completion of the script and then again after the final comic file is available? Or can I only submit the copyright request once and should wait until the completed comic file is done? In my specific situation I’ve just sent an application to the copyright office with my final draft version or the script but would also like to submit the final completed comic book file too.
Thanks for the info. Question, if I convert the paperback to Ebook and Audiobook with total 3 ISBN numbers, do I need to copyright the Ebook and audiobook? Thank you
@junior_3676 wrote, “What if I live abroad and I want to internationally publish a book in english? To best protect your works against US-based copyright infringers, international authors (and creatives) can and should *timely* (quickly) register their literary works in their own language and/or in English with the US Copyright Office, especially if they plan to list, sell, license, share, or further distribute their works on US selling platforms or directly to US customers.
If you stick with the common file formats, you should be OK. However, and to be sure, visit the US *Copyright Office (it has a .gov* extension) and enter “acceptable files” in its search box.
If you, other Canadians, and international authors are selling, licensing, or sharing your printed or e-books on US selling platforms, and to be best protected against US-based infringers, you should *quickly* register them with the US Copyright Office. Do not delay!
Would I I have to submit two separate claims for my ebook version and my paperback version? Both are being uploaded and sold in the same locations like my local store or FBO, Amazon KDP, etc. Thanks! Love this informative video!
veronicailg7927 wrote, “Would I I have to submit two separate claims for my ebook version and my paperback version? Both are being uploaded and sold in the same locations like my local store or FBO, Amazon KDP, etc.” If both your printed book and eBook are identical, then you can register your paperback via the Single Application (aka, “One Work By One Author” at $45) or the Standard Application ($65). Your paperback registration should cover your eBook. If you’re first-publishing your paperback and eBook simultaneously on the same day, you may have to submit TWO “best-edition copies” of your paperback to the US Copyright Office (USCO) as your deposit (upload). You can search the USCO for “best edition copy” or call them for clarification.
Thank you so much! This was very helpful. Do I have to wait for my copyright claim to be fully processed before selling on Amazon KDP? Or can I sell with my application pending? Thanks!
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
@@310.raised the copyright symbol is found in Microsoft word. Go to INSET, then to the far right go to ADVANCE SYMBOL and pick the copyright symbol to use
Thank you for the clear presentation of info. I am the Author. Do I need to do anything, set up any legal business in order to claim I am the Publisher? I read below someone asked about LLC. I don't know what that means. Is there another step I am missing before I can indicate on the form that I am the Publisher? My plan is to take my books to KDP and then Audible. Are they the publisher or am I? I think of them to be the distributor. Am I correct about this? thanks for your clarity.
OH MY STARS!!!!! THIS WAS AN AMAZING SHORT BUT YET THOROUGH VIDEO!!! THANKS SO MUCH💯❤️❤️ QUICK QUESTION ABOUT STEP NUMBER 3: ONCE YOUR BOOK IS OFFICIALLY COPYRIGHTED, IS IT GOOD TO GO RIGHT AWAY FOR BOOK PUBLISHING, OR HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET APPROVED??? I GUESS IS WHAT I LOVE TO ASK :)
I was looking into this just recently, and a professional organisation told me that Microsoft Times New Roman needs a font license if it is to be used commercially, as in a published book. There’s no problem using it on your computer, because that’s for personal use.
@@phoenixphoenix8668 God. I can't even publish a freebie give away? I did find a reply to this question on a Microsoft website where the response was, yes you can use the font because you are selling a book not the font. Thanks for reply.
Ok so when I copyright my book, are all the characters in the book copyrighted and protected so I can use them elsewhere in coloring books, journals, etc. and they will be protected in each body of work I choose to use then in? Thank you!
Quick question: if I say the book is unpublished when I fill out the copyright application (it is unpublished), will the copyright update itself once the book is published? Do I update that information or does it happen automatically? Thank you so much!!
After seeing your video, I've decided to copyright my work. I do have more than one so I take it I'll need separate forms. I must admit it, I somehow thought it was harder. As I have the Voice Over Production being done for the Audio Book right now. I still have the E book to do. I just wanted to get it out there and see if it's even liked. Thank you very much for the information
Since you are supposed to send them the best copy of your book do you upload a digital copy and then send them a paperback/ hardcover after you have applied for copywrite?
Suzette Hopkins wrote, ”Since you are supposed to send them the best copy of your book do you upload a digital copy and then send them a paperback/ hardcover after you have applied for copywrite [copyright]?” If you’re literary work is a hard or soft copy printed book that’s been published, then you’ll likely have to include two best edition copies as your deposit with your copyright registration application. See www.copyright.gov/circs/circ07b.pdf If your hard or soft copy book is UN-published or it’s an e-book, you can register it by submitting a digital file. See www.copyright.gov/circs/circ02.pdf
ive copyrighted the 1st draft of my manuscript, but the 2nd draft is majorly different. What form should I use to "update" the literary work? do I simply "Register a work" again, or is there another form for this purpose?
When you upload the file to copyright.gov, do you need to include acknowledgements, legal stuff, author biography, etc.? Or, do you just upload the Introduction and story? Thank you.
This is great info. When doing a copyright page do you have to put a publisher when using kdp? Or need to write a publisher when you buy from say lulu or overseas?
Some authors think they don't need to follow step 3, register their claim with the US Government as they have proof that they wrote the novel, they have Word files, maybe they've emailed the files to themselves etc. A lawyer explained to me that this is missing the real issue. The real issue isn't proving that you wrote the work, the real issue is proving that you wrote the work ALONE. Word files etc don't prove that someone didn't sit beside you in a cafe and wrote the novel with you. You can't prove a negative. Registering the claim is you putting yourself on the line, being bold enough to say I WROTE THIS ALONE. A court is likely to decide that since you did this, and the other party (ie someone trying to rip you off) didn't, proves that you wrote the book and they didn't help. Or so the lawyer explained to me. Since you can't prove that negative, you need this process of filing a claim. Or so the lawyer explained to me.
Thank you for this information haven't gotten a chance to watch but from what I'm seeing in the comments it's a really helpful video my lunch time almost up
Thank you so much for this! It was so direct & straight to the point! I have one question. How long do I wait to receive the copyright certificate? Assuming there are no hiccups.
Breanna Garrett wrote, “How long do I wait to receive the copyright certificate? Assuming there are no hiccups.” You have two options to register your works: Register your work via the eCO (on-line copyright registration application - that’s what I select) or by mailing in paper form applications. Use the eCO registration application, unless the US Copyright Office (USCO) or your copyright attorney tells you to register via the paper forms. The day the USCO *“receives”* your correctly filled-out application + a deposited copy of your work you’re registering + your filing fee, that’s when your work has been officially *registered”* with the USCO, even though it can take months to receive your mailed *“Certificate of Registration”* (your “effective date of registration” will be listed on your Certificate, the day your completed application was received). If there are no issues with your eCO on-line registration, it can take three/four weeks to a couple of months to receive your issued Certificate in the mail, while it can take MONTHS for paper applications to clear. If you have filed and completed an UN-published copyright registration application, wait two days BEFORE you post it on-line or release it to others. If you’ve registered a published work, you can post or release it on that same day (if you can wait an extra day or two, that may help).
QUICK QUESTION!!! Do I need to copyright BOTH my book and audiobook? Or does my book copyright cover the audiobook as well? (In the USA)... Thanks so much for this great video!
Yes. To receive the BEST and most ROBUST copyright protection, register your book as a literary work and separately register your audio book as a sound-recording.
What if someone would like to write a book with a pen name? How does the copyright registration procedure change in that case? What about the copyright notice in the book itself? Thank you for your video.
@lucapassani1129 wrote, “What if someone would like to write a book with a pen name? How does the copyright registration procedure change in that case?” US copyright permits authors & artists to register their works via their given name, nickname, pseudonym (pen name), or anonymously. Other than that, the copyright registration process is identical. If you register via a pseudonym, you have the option to keep your real name private OR make it public. UA-cam won’t allow me to post links, so you’ll have to search “US Copyright Office & Circular 32” (Pseudonym) in an Internet search. The process to correctly register a pseudonym can be *tricky,* especially if you want to keep your legal name private. If Circular 32 doesn’t answer all your questions, search “US Copyright Office Contact” to either call or email them with questions.
@@lucapassani1129 Luca: Keep in mind that you need to register *QUICKLY* to preserve your creative rights. If your work has been *“published,”* you really need to register your work within three-month of its first-date of publication (that’s typically the date you first list, sell, license, share, or giveaway your work to the public). I typically register all my works before they are published (i.e., registered as “UN-published” works). Write back if you have additional questions on registering *(protecting!)* your works of authorships.
Thank you for this helpful video. My book has a subtitle. Do I just type in the title or both the title and subtitle when I register "Title of this work"? Thank you!
From what I understand, it is based on your preference. Remember, teh copyright is just about making your claim to your work more evident and concrete. The more information you give, the more concrete that that work is yours. So I personally add the title and subtitle....especially if my title is something small and something that another book might also have.
Wonderul easy to follow video, Thank you. I have a question though. I have a book I wrote under a pseudonym and not my legal name. When I register for a copyright, which name do I register it under? My real name or my pseudonym?
As I am a Canadian, do I still copyright my book through this site with the US government? I intend to put my book on Amazons KDP in any English speaking country around the world. (multiple Amazon sites will be checked off for sale)
Adrian Van Leeuwen wrote, “As I am a Canadian, do I still copyright [register] my book through this site with the US government? I intend to put my book on Amazons KDP in any English speaking country around the world.” If your literary works are being sold, licensed, or shared on a US selling platform, then they *really, really* need to be “timely” (quickly) registered with the US Copyright Office (USCO) to be best protected against US-based copyright infringers! *By quickly registering your books with the USCO, is how you *“presumptively prove”* your copyright authorship & copyright ownership claims to a US federal judge and others. I’m also Canadian, and I register all my creative works with the USCO.
Does my book have to be completely finished in order to submit my work? Like do I have to upload the body of work or any pages in order to file a claim?
Imān Benét Lewis wrote, “Does my book have to be completely finished in order to submit my work?” No. You can register your un-finished work as an *UN-published* work. If, later on, you make significant changes (edits, additions, and/or deletions) to your original un-/published registered work, you REALLY should register the new material to be best legally protected. Any substantive modifications to your original work, are identified as a *“derivative”* work. See www.copyright.gov/circs/circ14.pdf To register a derivative work, use the $65 on-line “Standard Application”: ua-cam.com/video/6gNkssUfYas/v-deo.html
There is no Australian copyright registration system. Therefore, you should register your works with the US Copyright Office (USCO), *especially* if you’re posting, selling, etc. your works on US selling platforms. If your work is copyrightable, the USCO will issue (mail) a US copyright “Certificate of Registration” to you. The Certificate is your *“presumptive legal proof”* of your US copyright creation & validity. Your Certificate could likely be used in Australia and in other “Berne” courts (170+ international copyright treaty country members) to authenticate your copyright creation & ownership claims. Your Certificate will include a USCO date stamp of registration.
Actually, this is quite informative... The idea has been buzzing around in the back of my head that film makers are constantly scouring around for new story lines... Now I have to be realistic about these things. The chances of one of my short stories getting noticed by a veteran screenwriter are approximately the same as getting hit in the head by a meterorite...(which is why I never go outdoors without a steel plate under my hat...) A copyright registered with the feds is a steel plate...the best protection against theft...
Question: I’m making my first self-made comic book that I am planning on doing it all work myself but before all that should I put a copyright claim on it as a manuscript before it completely finish or I should wait until my book is completely finished and then did a copyright claim?
@@mckinniesmovies3598 I would complete your manuscript and then quickly register it with the US Copyright Office. Don't shop your book around until you've registered it.
Not sure if you'll see this, but I plan on writing a book series- two main books and a spinoff. The first one I have typed out on my laptop in Google Docs. The second one, I'm currently working on typing out, and the third is a eventual future project. That said, do you think I should do the standard application? Or do the multiple group of works application? Any help will be greatly appreciated, thanks for taking the time to read this!
Bananatos wrote, “…do you think I should do the standard application? Or do the multiple group of works application?” Here are your options to register a single or multiple works in one on-line application: 1) *“Single Application”:* The fee to register ONE un-/published work (like one book or one illustration or one photograph or one painting or one cartoon or one poem or one song or one video, etc.) with ONE author who’s the SAME copyright claimant, that’s NOT a-work-for-hire project, and that does NOT include any third-party licensed media, is $45 -- you MUST have created the ENTIRE work yourself! Use the “Single Application” (on-line eCO copyright registration application): ua-cam.com/video/MkBiPQNDVBc/v-deo.html Otherwise, to register a single un-/published work with multiple authors, and/or as a derivative/collective work, and/or that includes Creative Commons, Public Domain, and/or licensed media, etc., the fee is $65. Use the “Standard Application” (on-line eCO application): ua-cam.com/video/6gNkssUfYas/v-deo.html 2) *"Un-Published Similar Works":* To register a group of up to TEN UN-published works from the SAME category type, like visual arts (un-published drawings, un-published illustrations, un-published paintings, un-published sculptures) or literary works(un-publsihed poems, unpublished articles, unpublished novels, etc.) the fee is $85 total. See the tutorial *“Group Registration of Unpublished Works” (GRUW):* www.copyright.gov/gruw/ and ua-cam.com/video/eR14iSM4esQ/v-deo.html *“Publication” Definition:* Publication typically means the work has been released and made available to the public for licensing, selling, sharing, downloading, or for further distribution (either for free or for payment). The day you deliver your creative work to your client or stock is likely the official date of its first-publication. If you’re just “displaying” a work on-line (like on a website portfolio) and not selling or sharing it, then the work is likely un-published. See Circular 1 (Copyright Basics, page 7) for the legal definition of “Publication”: www.copyright.gov/circs/ 3) To register a group of up to 50 *“On-Line Literary Works”* (from 50 to 17,500 words) that are first-published on-line per a three-month timeframe (including poems, short stories, articles, essays, columns, blog entries, and social media posts) the total fee is $65. See www.copyright.gov/grtx/
Yes: You must submit a correctly filled out copyright registration application + payment of fees (for ONE work, it's either $45 or $65) + your deposit (the work of authorship you're registering). If your manuscript is UN-published, you can submit a PDF or a Word document. If your authorship has been published in physical form, you may have to submit two copies (deposits) of the book. If it’s solely an e-book, then you may be able to submit a PDF or Word document.
Great video! I have a quick question, do you have to do the 3rd step if you publish a book on Amazon Kindle Publishing Direct, ebook or real? Or does Amazon do that for you?
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
Toronto Tom wrote, “If I am publishing from Canada can I go this route or should I seek a Canadian govt site for copywriting [registering]? If your work will be distributed, sold, licensed, or shared in the US and in other countries, you’re ENCOURAGE to *“timely”* (IMMEDIATELY) register your copyright work with the US Copyright Office (USCO). Don’t delay! This short law article explains why international creatives/authors, including Canadians, and especially those who are licensing, selling, distributing, sharing their work in the US, should timely register their copyrights with the USCO (just replace the word “companies” with “photographers,” video & filmmakers,” “writers,” “illustrators,” and other creatives”: donahue.com/resources/publications/copyrights-registered-u-s/ It may be advantageous to also register with the “Canadian Intellectual Property Office”: www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/cipointernet-internetopic.nsf/eng/wr03915.html Write back if you need tips on how to register your copyright claims with the USCO. Go Leafs & Habs!
@jakegrave261 wrote, “What if you're not using your real name on your books?” The US Copyright Office permits you to *“register”* your literary works under your real name or an abbreviated version of your name (say, “Robert” Smith to “Bob” or “Bobby” Smith), a pen name (pseudonym), or even anonymously. Some writers produce literature in two or more genres and will use different names. Say, your real name for fiction and a pseudonym for children’s stories. Here’s the US Copyright Office’s informational link on “Pseudonyms”: www.copyright.gov/circs/circ32.pdf Follow the copyright registration instructions CAREFULLY; otherwise, you may inadvertently include your real name (if you don’t want that) in your issued Certificate of Registration” (that will be mail to you if your work qualifies for US registration). If you solely created EVERY component of your book and own its copyright + you’re not including any third-party content, you can register your ONE book via the on-line $45 “Single Application”, also known as “One Work by One Author.”
How do you make a copyright claim ? And how do you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well.
Just wondering, Do you have to put an address down for the Copyright? Was contemplating this and really dont want have my home address out there. Is there a way around this?
You can register your ebooks via a P.O. Box, a UPS box, your attorney's or another person's address. To keep your privacy, do NOT include your email or phone number in the “Rights & Permission Information (Optional)” section of your registration application.
Swear to God, worrying about the copyright and how to do it stressed me out more than writing the 100 page history book and the year's worth of research that went into it. Thank God I found this video lol.
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
I agree! :)
Thank you so much! I was going to publish a book on Amazon and when it asked about copyright I thought, “Wait a minute, I better address this!” You are the best, concise and strait to the point. ❤
hi, I am a new writer. Can you help me with publishing? may be a tip or two?
Thank you for putting this video together! Especially for doing an actual walkthrough of the process.
Glad it was helpful!
@@Kindlepreneur yeah, the walk through was super helpful. It just nice to not have to figure it out on your own.
Can you tell me how to copyright comic book
Just finished submitting my copyright for my first book. It wasn't as painful as I thought it would be thanks to your video. Thank you!
How long did it take ???
@@310.raised I completed the online forms which took me about an hour or two, I wanted to double check and verify
@@miamichelleabad5821 nice! And How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
The BEST! The walk-thru is exactly what I needed. Thanks.
This was really helpful, thanks. I've got a question though.. can this be used by authors outside of the US?
I come back to say thanks ! Your video really helps! I was successful in registering my copyright
Wow! This sounds waaay easier than "poor man's copywrite". I've been working on a story in my head since I was 17, and have only drawn original characters. Artists would tell m about poor man's copywrite and how I would have to mail everything to myself. That sounds tedious. But thanks again for this video, now I'm not so weary about copywriting my story and OCs.
Ikr i hate that
@Jan parchanski what are you asking? I could probably explain.....
@Jan parchanski Haha😑 I am glad to say I don't know everything. Thanks for the lesson.
At 1:48, you said that you need to specify the name of the person who is filing the claim. Suppose you don't want to use your real name as the author of the book. If that is the case:
1. When making a copyright claim, is it legal to use the pen name that you chose or do you have to use your real name?
2. When filing the claim at the copyright website, would you use your pen name in some fields (e.g. author) and your real name in other fields (e.g. claimant or correspondent)?
Ughhh! That's a good question. So which did you choose ? Did you ever find out. I hope everything turned out great for you. I'm on my way but this has wrecked my nerves lol
Great question! I wish it was answered. That's exactly what I need to know.
Thank you so much!!! I was able to follow your steps 🚶♂️perfectly!! You are truly appreciated ❤
Glad it helped!
Hello. Thank you for this wonderful video. I have a question, is it possible to register my book without ISBN? And just buy ISBN later on?
1.does this apply also to low/medium content books (non fiction) on kdp?
2.if I made a puzzle book in 2022, but it's going to be published in 2023, what year do I write, ©2022 or ©2023?
thanks!
Thank you for this information. What do you know about unregistered copyright?
To be best protected, you're encouraged to register both your published and un-published works with the US Copyright Office.
This is my first experience, and this video was so helpful. Thank you
Yup, I missed Part 3 of this. Thank You! Your videos are always so solid!!
Glad you like them!
Awesome.
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
me too, now fixing
Great video ! Thank you for the clarity on the subject. You made it very simple to understand . 🎉
You're a saint for this!! Thank you for covering this topic!!
Thank you for the informative video!
Do you submit the book as a PDF with the front cover and back cover as part of the document? I tried to copyright one of my books a few years back and followed all steps as you outlined (I think), submitted the work as PDF containing cover art and then never received a copyright certificate. It seemed to have gotten lost in the shuffle.
I have successfully copyrighted music using the same website several times. Anyway, just wondering about your experience with submission format and maybe how long it takes before you hear back from LoC with a certificate of copyright?
Thank you!
Did you ever hear back from them with a certificate of copyright? I’m dealing with the same situation…
@@MindfulConsciousness no I never did. I may or may not re-apply eventually. I’m not sure I even care anymore.
This is great information! I was also wondering about if I created my own publishing company, would I do anything differently at all? Or would I still use my individual information on everything? Thanks!
Thank you! This is so straightforward and you took all the stress out of it. What if my book is already published and I would like to register a claim after the fact?
Precise perfect and v professional video !!! Thanks a bunch. I am about to go and copyright my first book !!!
That video was quite helpful. Gonna stay in the loop with your channel for more must see content.
very helpful I have 17 stories I'm working on getting published and need all the good advice I can get thanks
Did u publish them yet?
Hi, does Kindle publishing create a copy right page or does an author write that before uploading to kindle direct?
So could you use this same method to copyright characters for your comic books?
I'm a bit confused. I have an LLC setup as a publishing company. Would I still be the claimant or should the LLC be the claimant?
Thanks for the video😊 Do I need to do another version for and ebook version? Can you tell me if I have to use my realname or my pen name?
Kind of a technical question here but I have written a script for a comic book, can/should I submit copyright at time of completion of the script and then again after the final comic file is available? Or can I only submit the copyright request once and should wait until the completed comic file is done? In my specific situation I’ve just sent an application to the copyright office with my final draft version or the script but would also like to submit the final completed comic book file too.
Dude… finaly my dyta-verse is SAVED! What a legend
Does this also apply to guided journals and low content books?
Thanks for the info. Question, if I convert the paperback to Ebook and Audiobook with total 3 ISBN numbers, do I need to copyright the Ebook and audiobook? Thank you
Thank you! Perfect tutorial.
Is step 3 valid for those who live outside the US? What if I live abroad and I want to internationally publish a book in english?
@junior_3676 wrote, “What if I live abroad and I want to internationally publish a book in english?
To best protect your works against US-based copyright infringers, international authors (and creatives) can and should *timely* (quickly) register their literary works in their own language and/or in English with the US Copyright Office, especially if they plan to list, sell, license, share, or further distribute their works on US selling platforms or directly to US customers.
Is there a required file format for the work you submit?
If you stick with the common file formats, you should be OK. However, and to be sure, visit the US *Copyright Office (it has a .gov* extension) and enter “acceptable files” in its search box.
Thank you for the video. Does it apply to eBooks? Also, I'm in Canada.
If you, other Canadians, and international authors are selling, licensing, or sharing your printed or e-books on US selling platforms, and to be best protected against US-based infringers, you should *quickly* register them with the US Copyright Office. Do not delay!
Would I I have to submit two separate claims for my ebook version and my paperback version? Both are being uploaded and sold in the same locations like my local store or FBO, Amazon KDP, etc. Thanks! Love this informative video!
veronicailg7927 wrote, “Would I I have to submit two separate claims for my ebook version and my paperback version? Both are being uploaded and sold in the same locations like my local store or FBO, Amazon KDP, etc.”
If both your printed book and eBook are identical, then you can register your paperback via the Single Application (aka, “One Work By One Author” at $45) or the Standard Application ($65). Your paperback registration should cover your eBook.
If you’re first-publishing your paperback and eBook simultaneously on the same day, you may have to submit TWO “best-edition copies” of your paperback to the US Copyright Office (USCO) as your deposit (upload).
You can search the USCO for “best edition copy” or call them for clarification.
Thank you so much! This was very helpful. Do I have to wait for my copyright claim to be fully processed before selling on Amazon KDP? Or can I sell with my application pending? Thanks!
You can sell while it’s pending
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
@@310.raised the copyright symbol is found in Microsoft word. Go to INSET, then to the far right go to ADVANCE SYMBOL and pick the copyright symbol to use
@@agonzalez22179 t y💯
@@agonzalez22179 ...how long does the process take?
Thank you for this walk through!! Question; do we have to submit the actual book ?
As someone from Canada who is releasing their book on amazon is using this site still viable for me?
Great video!
Thank you for the clear presentation of info. I am the Author. Do I need to do anything, set up any legal business in order to claim I am the Publisher? I read below someone asked about LLC. I don't know what that means. Is there another step I am missing before I can indicate on the form that I am the Publisher? My plan is to take my books to KDP and then Audible. Are they the publisher or am I? I think of them to be the distributor. Am I correct about this? thanks for your clarity.
What about international copyrights? Does That happen separately? If I make a mistake filling out the forms will there be someone there to help me?
is this different from amazon branding? What the difference? which one is better? do we need to have the book published some where already for this?
Just finished my children's book today. Thank you big dawg...er um sir!
Awesome and congrats!
@@Kindlepreneur I finished my copyright last night!
@@superiormeh please, how did you go about it. Please, share the site, and was it free?
@@tosinsaibu3694 the copyright? I went to us copyright.gov. it will cost you depending on what you copy right. Mine was $65
My 2nd book was $85 but it was for a different series
OH MY STARS!!!!! THIS WAS AN AMAZING SHORT BUT YET THOROUGH VIDEO!!! THANKS SO MUCH💯❤️❤️ QUICK QUESTION ABOUT STEP NUMBER 3: ONCE YOUR BOOK IS OFFICIALLY COPYRIGHTED, IS IT GOOD TO GO RIGHT AWAY FOR BOOK PUBLISHING, OR HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET APPROVED??? I GUESS IS WHAT I LOVE TO ASK :)
After you complete the steps in the video can you publish the book? Or do you have to wait for them to confirm it?
Do you have to file different copyright claims for drawings, photos, and diagrams within the book? Is there a video on that?
Hello. Wonderful advice here. Question: Do I need a font license to use Microsoft Times New Roman? Thanks
I was looking into this just recently, and a professional organisation told me that Microsoft Times New Roman needs a font license if it is to be used commercially, as in a published book. There’s no problem using it on your computer, because that’s for personal use.
@@phoenixphoenix8668 God. I can't even publish a freebie give away? I did find a reply to this question on a Microsoft website where the response was, yes you can use the font because you are selling a book not the font. Thanks for reply.
Yet another fantastic video Dave! Thank you!!!
I appreciate it well educative and organized to guide on how to d this right. God bless You 🙏💯
Glad it was helpful!
Like this presentation. Direct and to the point.
Thanks!
Hello, I just started out creating journals on AMAZON KDP and I wanted to know if I should get the copyrights for my work?
Great video as always, Dave!
Thanks man!
I was just thinking of you Dale as I watched this!
Sheryl Smiley haha that’s awesome! Yeah, Dave is my go-to. Loved this video!
Ok so when I copyright my book, are all the characters in the book copyrighted and protected so I can use them elsewhere in coloring books, journals, etc. and they will be protected in each body of work I choose to use then in? Thank you!
If I have two formats of one book like an ebook and a hardback - do I have to get two copywrights or will one copywright cover both formats?
What did you wind up doing??
@@The_Spiritual_Mystic Single copyright covers all version of the book. All versions of work should have different ISBN numbers.
@@julianwagner5065 thanks for the reply. now i will know also that information thank you and God bless!
if a form asks for the copyright of a book that i borrowed, what exactly should I put in the form?
Can an author from Europe use step 3 websites even if i don't live in US.
Quick question: if I say the book is unpublished when I fill out the copyright application (it is unpublished), will the copyright update itself once the book is published? Do I update that information or does it happen automatically? Thank you so much!!
There’s nowhere to submit the actual manuscript or ISBN in the copyright application. Is that right?
very clear video thank you!
After seeing your video, I've decided to copyright my work. I do have more than one so I take it I'll need separate forms. I must admit it, I somehow thought it was harder. As I have the Voice Over Production being done for the Audio Book right now. I still have the E book to do. I just wanted to get it out there and see if it's even liked. Thank you very much for the information
Awesome and glad to have helped!
Hi, how can i include a ASIN number for my upload copyright page but you only get the ASIN number after the book becomes active? Thank you.
Since you are supposed to send them the best copy of your book do you upload a digital copy and then send them a paperback/ hardcover after you have applied for copywrite?
Suzette Hopkins wrote, ”Since you are supposed to send them the best copy of your book do you upload a digital copy and then send them a paperback/ hardcover after you have applied for copywrite [copyright]?”
If you’re literary work is a hard or soft copy printed book that’s been published, then you’ll likely have to include two best edition copies as your deposit with your copyright registration application. See www.copyright.gov/circs/circ07b.pdf
If your hard or soft copy book is UN-published or it’s an e-book, you can register it by submitting a digital file. See www.copyright.gov/circs/circ02.pdf
ive copyrighted the 1st draft of my manuscript, but the 2nd draft is majorly different. What form should I use to "update" the literary work? do I simply "Register a work" again, or is there another form for this purpose?
When you upload the file to copyright.gov, do you need to include acknowledgements, legal stuff, author biography, etc.? Or, do you just upload the Introduction and story? Thank you.
I would include your entire ebook: Acknowledgements, copyright attribution, author's bio, etc.
This is great info. When doing a copyright page do you have to put a publisher when using kdp? Or need to write a publisher when you buy from say lulu or overseas?
Excellent video! It made the process quick and easy! Thanks!!
Some authors think they don't need to follow step 3, register their claim with the US Government as they have proof that they wrote the novel, they have Word files, maybe they've emailed the files to themselves etc. A lawyer explained to me that this is missing the real issue. The real issue isn't proving that you wrote the work, the real issue is proving that you wrote the work ALONE. Word files etc don't prove that someone didn't sit beside you in a cafe and wrote the novel with you. You can't prove a negative. Registering the claim is you putting yourself on the line, being bold enough to say I WROTE THIS ALONE. A court is likely to decide that since you did this, and the other party (ie someone trying to rip you off) didn't, proves that you wrote the book and they didn't help. Or so the lawyer explained to me. Since you can't prove that negative, you need this process of filing a claim. Or so the lawyer explained to me.
How do you register a claim
I’m picturing playing pop
Good point
Thank you for this information haven't gotten a chance to watch but from what I'm seeing in the comments it's a really helpful video my lunch time almost up
Hi, can we make copyright of Research Title of PhD research topic?
Thank you so much for this! It was so direct & straight to the point! I have one question. How long do I wait to receive the copyright certificate? Assuming there are no hiccups.
Breanna Garrett wrote, “How long do I wait to receive the copyright certificate? Assuming there are no hiccups.”
You have two options to register your works: Register your work via the eCO (on-line copyright registration application - that’s what I select) or by mailing in paper form applications.
Use the eCO registration application, unless the US Copyright Office (USCO) or your copyright attorney tells you to register via the paper forms.
The day the USCO *“receives”* your correctly filled-out application + a deposited copy of your work you’re registering + your filing fee, that’s when your work has been officially *registered”* with the USCO, even though it can take months to receive your mailed *“Certificate of Registration”* (your “effective date of registration” will be listed on your Certificate, the day your completed application was received).
If there are no issues with your eCO on-line registration, it can take three/four weeks to a couple of months to receive your issued Certificate in the mail, while it can take MONTHS for paper applications to clear.
If you have filed and completed an UN-published copyright registration application, wait two days BEFORE you post it on-line or release it to others. If you’ve registered a published work, you can post or release it on that same day (if you can wait an extra day or two, that may help).
QUICK QUESTION!!! Do I need to copyright BOTH my book and audiobook? Or does my book copyright cover the audiobook as well? (In the USA)... Thanks so much for this great video!
Yes. To receive the BEST and most ROBUST copyright protection, register your book as a literary work and separately register your audio book as a sound-recording.
@@cnlicnli Thanks so much!
What if someone would like to write a book with a pen name? How does the copyright registration procedure change in that case? What about the copyright notice in the book itself?
Thank you for your video.
@lucapassani1129 wrote, “What if someone would like to write a book with a pen name? How does the copyright registration procedure change in that case?”
US copyright permits authors & artists to register their works via their given name, nickname, pseudonym (pen name), or anonymously. Other than that, the copyright registration process is identical.
If you register via a pseudonym, you have the option to keep your real name private OR make it public. UA-cam won’t allow me to post links, so you’ll have to search “US Copyright Office & Circular 32” (Pseudonym) in an Internet search.
The process to correctly register a pseudonym can be *tricky,* especially if you want to keep your legal name private. If Circular 32 doesn’t answer all your questions, search “US Copyright Office Contact” to either call or email them with questions.
@@cnlicnli Thank you, brother.
@@lucapassani1129 Luca: Keep in mind that you need to register *QUICKLY* to preserve your creative rights.
If your work has been *“published,”* you really need to register your work within three-month of its first-date of publication (that’s typically the date you first list, sell, license, share, or giveaway your work to the public).
I typically register all my works before they are published (i.e., registered as “UN-published” works).
Write back if you have additional questions on registering *(protecting!)* your works of authorships.
Thank you for this helpful video. My book has a subtitle. Do I just type in the title or both the title and subtitle when I register "Title of this work"? Thank you!
I've been wondering the same thing. Thank you for asking this.
From what I understand, it is based on your preference. Remember, teh copyright is just about making your claim to your work more evident and concrete. The more information you give, the more concrete that that work is yours. So I personally add the title and subtitle....especially if my title is something small and something that another book might also have.
Wonderul easy to follow video, Thank you. I have a question though. I have a book I wrote under a pseudonym and not my legal name. When I register for a copyright, which name do I register it under? My real name or my pseudonym?
Register the owner's name. There will be appropriate boxes to fill.
@@KindlepreneurThank you again.
Real good advice and guidance for first time authors like myself. Thanks
You're very welcome!
Where's the "Description", where's the links he refers to in the video?
As I am a Canadian, do I still copyright my book through this site with the US government? I intend to put my book on Amazons KDP in any English speaking country around the world. (multiple Amazon sites will be checked off for sale)
Adrian Van Leeuwen wrote, “As I am a Canadian, do I still copyright [register] my book through this site with the US government? I intend to put my book on Amazons KDP in any English speaking country around the world.”
If your literary works are being sold, licensed, or shared on a US selling platform, then they *really, really* need to be “timely” (quickly) registered with the US Copyright Office (USCO) to be best protected against US-based copyright infringers!
*By quickly registering your books with the USCO, is how you *“presumptively prove”* your copyright authorship & copyright ownership claims to a US federal judge and others.
I’m also Canadian, and I register all my creative works with the USCO.
Does my book have to be completely finished in order to submit my work? Like do I have to upload the body of work or any pages in order to file a claim?
Imān Benét Lewis wrote, “Does my book have to be completely finished in order to submit my work?”
No. You can register your un-finished work as an *UN-published* work.
If, later on, you make significant changes (edits, additions, and/or deletions) to your original un-/published registered work, you REALLY should register the new material to be best legally protected. Any substantive modifications to your original work, are identified as a *“derivative”* work.
See www.copyright.gov/circs/circ14.pdf
To register a derivative work, use the $65 on-line “Standard Application”: ua-cam.com/video/6gNkssUfYas/v-deo.html
Can I use the “copyrighted material” label while my application is pending?
I'm in Australia , should I find somewhere to register there? Or still use this site?
There is no Australian copyright registration system. Therefore, you should register your works with the US Copyright Office (USCO), *especially* if you’re posting, selling, etc. your works on US selling platforms.
If your work is copyrightable, the USCO will issue (mail) a US copyright “Certificate of Registration” to you. The Certificate is your *“presumptive legal proof”* of your US copyright creation & validity. Your Certificate could likely be used in Australia and in other “Berne” courts (170+ international copyright treaty country members) to authenticate your copyright creation & ownership claims. Your Certificate will include a USCO date stamp of registration.
Actually, this is quite informative...
The idea has been buzzing around in the back of my head that film makers are constantly scouring around for new story lines...
Now I have to be realistic about these things. The chances of one of my short stories getting noticed by a veteran screenwriter are approximately the same as getting hit in the head by a meterorite...(which is why I never go outdoors without a steel plate under my hat...)
A copyright registered with the feds is a steel plate...the best protection against theft...
Very cool and glad you liked it.
Brilliant information and thank you so much for sharing this!
Hey, on the 'Mail Certificate' page they have a spot for the Organization Name... What do I put there?
Hey Dave,
Do I need to do step 3 if I am from the UK or do i need to do something else? Thanks and great video!
No, but the UK may have their own requirements.
Thank you. I can't find the link.
Can I do the last step piror to second one?
Question: I’m making my first self-made comic book that I am planning on doing it all work myself but before all that should I put a copyright claim on it as a manuscript before it completely finish or I should wait until my book is completely finished and then did a copyright claim?
Mckinnie's Movies wrote, “I’m making my first self-made comic book that I am planning on doing it all work myself but before all that should I put a copyright claim on it as a manuscript before it completely finish or I should wait until my book is completely finished and then did a copyright claim?”
Ideally, and once it’s finished, *IMMEDIATELY* register your book with the US Copyright Office.
It might be easier to register your finished book it as an UN-published work. UN-published means BEFORE you start licensing, selling, sharing, distributing, or “shopping it around” to publishers, agents, etc. (you would only have to send a pdf file as your deposit, if it’s UN-published).
If you’ve published a physical book vs. an e-book, you may have to send two copies of your completed book to get it registered (possibly more work).
Always include your copyright attribution and URL and/or social media handle on your book:
* Copyright © 2023 .*
@@cnlicnli so I should finish the manuscript and then get a copyright it before the rest?
@@mckinniesmovies3598 I would complete your manuscript and then quickly register it with the US Copyright Office. Don't shop your book around until you've registered it.
I published my first book a couple of years ago. I filed the copyright but I didn’t include a copyright page in my book 😩
Ah, bummer
Thank you
What book was it?
Thank you so much! Very informative!
Brilliant suff! Thanks! VERY HELPFUL!
Glad it helped!
Not sure if you'll see this, but I plan on writing a book series- two main books and a spinoff. The first one I have typed out on my laptop in Google Docs. The second one, I'm currently working on typing out, and the third is a eventual future project. That said, do you think I should do the standard application? Or do the multiple group of works application? Any help will be greatly appreciated, thanks for taking the time to read this!
Bananatos wrote, “…do you think I should do the standard application? Or do the multiple group of works application?”
Here are your options to register a single or multiple works in one on-line application:
1) *“Single Application”:* The fee to register ONE un-/published work (like one book or one illustration or one photograph or one painting or one cartoon or one poem or one song or one video, etc.) with ONE author who’s the SAME copyright claimant, that’s NOT a-work-for-hire project, and that does NOT include any third-party licensed media, is $45 -- you MUST have created the ENTIRE work yourself! Use the “Single Application” (on-line eCO copyright registration application): ua-cam.com/video/MkBiPQNDVBc/v-deo.html
Otherwise, to register a single un-/published work with multiple authors, and/or as a derivative/collective work, and/or that includes Creative Commons, Public Domain, and/or licensed media, etc., the fee is $65. Use the “Standard Application” (on-line eCO application): ua-cam.com/video/6gNkssUfYas/v-deo.html
2) *"Un-Published Similar Works":* To register a group of up to TEN UN-published works from the SAME category type, like visual arts (un-published drawings, un-published illustrations, un-published paintings, un-published sculptures) or literary works(un-publsihed poems, unpublished articles, unpublished novels, etc.) the fee is $85 total. See the tutorial *“Group Registration of Unpublished Works” (GRUW):* www.copyright.gov/gruw/ and ua-cam.com/video/eR14iSM4esQ/v-deo.html
*“Publication” Definition:* Publication typically means the work has been released and made available to the public for licensing, selling, sharing, downloading, or for further distribution (either for free or for payment). The day you deliver your creative work to your client or stock is likely the official date of its first-publication. If you’re just “displaying” a work on-line (like on a website portfolio) and not selling or sharing it, then the work is likely un-published. See Circular 1 (Copyright Basics, page 7) for the legal definition of “Publication”: www.copyright.gov/circs/
3) To register a group of up to 50 *“On-Line Literary Works”* (from 50 to 17,500 words) that are first-published on-line per a three-month timeframe (including poems, short stories, articles, essays, columns, blog entries, and social media posts) the total fee is $65. See www.copyright.gov/grtx/
Thanks for this, your videos are really helpful to new authors like me. I was wondering what if I'm not from the U.S?
Both US and international creatives can register their creative works with the US Copyright Office.
@@cnlicnli Thank you I'm going to check it out.
Another question. When filing a copyright claim do I just submit my manuscript? Especially if that's where I am at in this process
Yes: You must submit a correctly filled out copyright registration application + payment of fees (for ONE work, it's either $45 or $65) + your deposit (the work of authorship you're registering).
If your manuscript is UN-published, you can submit a PDF or a Word document.
If your authorship has been published in physical form, you may have to submit two copies (deposits) of the book.
If it’s solely an e-book, then you may be able to submit a PDF or Word document.
Great video! I have a quick question, do you have to do the 3rd step if you publish a book on Amazon Kindle Publishing Direct, ebook or real? Or does Amazon do that for you?
If you want to be fully covered then yes. But 1 & 2 are pretty strong on their own.
Thanks! :)
How did you make a copyright claim ? And how did you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well. Ty
@@310.raised
I never officially made a copyright claim, but the symbol you can make on your computer. It was Ctrl+Alt+C.(that's for Windows. )
Do you copy right with the cover or can you do it without it?
You can register your literary work without a cover via a Word or PDF document
If I am publishing from Canada can I go this route or should I seek a Canadian govt site for copywriting?
Toronto Tom wrote, “If I am publishing from Canada can I go this route or should I seek a Canadian govt site for copywriting [registering]?
If your work will be distributed, sold, licensed, or shared in the US and in other countries, you’re ENCOURAGE to *“timely”* (IMMEDIATELY) register your copyright work with the US Copyright Office (USCO). Don’t delay!
This short law article explains why international creatives/authors, including Canadians, and especially those who are licensing, selling, distributing, sharing their work in the US, should timely register their copyrights with the USCO (just replace the word “companies” with “photographers,” video & filmmakers,” “writers,” “illustrators,” and other creatives”: donahue.com/resources/publications/copyrights-registered-u-s/
It may be advantageous to also register with the “Canadian Intellectual Property Office”: www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/cipointernet-internetopic.nsf/eng/wr03915.html
Write back if you need tips on how to register your copyright claims with the USCO.
Go Leafs & Habs!
Hey great video! I just have a question. What if you're not using your real name on your books? Thanks!
@jakegrave261 wrote, “What if you're not using your real name on your books?”
The US Copyright Office permits you to *“register”* your literary works under your real name or an abbreviated version of your name (say, “Robert” Smith to “Bob” or “Bobby” Smith), a pen name (pseudonym), or even anonymously.
Some writers produce literature in two or more genres and will use different names. Say, your real name for fiction and a pseudonym for children’s stories.
Here’s the US Copyright Office’s informational link on “Pseudonyms”: www.copyright.gov/circs/circ32.pdf
Follow the copyright registration instructions CAREFULLY; otherwise, you may inadvertently include your real name (if you don’t want that) in your issued Certificate of Registration” (that will be mail to you if your work qualifies for US registration).
If you solely created EVERY component of your book and own its copyright + you’re not including any third-party content, you can register your ONE book via the on-line $45 “Single Application”, also known as “One Work by One Author.”
Hello do I copyright before I send my draft off to an editor?
How do you make a copyright claim ? And how do you get the copy right symbol???? Please help me . I just finished my book and my editor just finished my book as well.
Do you need to create biz first in order to sell it.. I didn't hear anything about that
Just wondering, Do you have to put an address down for the Copyright? Was contemplating this and really dont want have my home address out there. Is there a way around this?
P.S Im doing self publication
You can register your ebooks via a P.O. Box, a UPS box, your attorney's or another person's address. To keep your privacy, do NOT include your email or phone number in the “Rights & Permission Information (Optional)” section of your registration application.