In this article I’m going to show you how to get a copyright application, fill it out, determine how much to pay, and exactly how to send your application and books into the Copyright Office. This is not a difficult process, but since you’re dealing with your creative work and the government at the same time, it pays to be cautious and do it properly.
One of the most common questions I hear from self-publishers hasn’t changed over the years: “How do I copyright my book?” Authors are concerned that someone might appropriate the book on which they’ve worked so long and hard.
I usually give them the 5 minute guide to copyright and advise them to wait until their book is back from the printer to register the copyright. Of course, we’ve made sure we have an accurate and complete copyright page in the book to begin with.
But now, book in hand and still a sparkle in the eye, you are ready to register your copyright. Let’s get started.
Visiting the Copyright Office—Online, That Is
The Copyright Office, a branch of the Library of Congress, is located in the James Madison Memorial Building in Washington, D.C. However, we’re going to their online location at http://www.copyright.gov/
Here’s what you’ll find when you get there:
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