Registering a composition copyright using the PA form on the U.S. Copyright Office’s eCO system is a straightforward process that allows you to protect your intellectual property rights online. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register your composition copyright using the eCO system:
1. Create an eCO Account
If you don’t already have an eCO account, you’ll need to create one before you can start the registration process. Visit the eCO website (eco.copyright.gov) and click on the “Create Account” button. Provide your personal information, contact details, and email address to set up your account.
2. Gather Required Information
Before you start filling out Form PA, gather all the necessary information about your composition, including:
- Title of the composition
- Author(s) of the composition
- Copyright owner(s) of the composition
- Date of creation
- Category of the composition (e.g., popular, jazz, classical)
- Brief description of the composition
3. Prepare Your Composition Files
You will need to upload a copy of your composition in one of the following formats:
- PDF: If your composition is in a standard music notation format, such as sheet music, save it as a PDF file.
- Music XML: If your composition is in a digital music notation format, save it as an Music XML (MusicXML) file.
- Audio: If your composition is in an audio format, such as WAV or MP3, save it as a separate file. The audio file should not exceed 50MB in size.
4. Start the Online Registration Process
Log in to your eCO account and click on the “New Recordation” button. Select the appropriate option for registering a composition using Form PA.
5. Fill Out Form PA Online
The eCO system will guide you through the online Form PA process. Provide accurate and complete information for each field, including the composition details, copyright ownership information, and a brief description of the work.
6. Upload Your Composition Files
Upload the PDF, Music XML, or audio file(s) of your composition. You can upload multiple files if your composition consists of multiple parts or separate arrangements.
7. Pay the Filing Fee
The current filing fee for registering a composition online is $35. You can pay the fee using a credit card or debit card through the eCO system.
8. Review and Submit Application
Carefully review all the information you have provided and make any necessary corrections. Once you are satisfied with your application, submit it through the eCO system.
9. Receive Copyright Registration Number
Upon successful submission of your application, the Copyright Office will process your request and assign your composition a copyright registration number. You will receive a notification by email when your registration is complete and a certificate of registration will be mailed to you.
Additional Considerations
- Co-Authorship: If you co-authored the composition with other individuals, list all co-authors on the online Form PA.
- Work for Hire: If you created the composition as part of your job or for someone else, the copyright may belong to your employer or client. Clarify copyright ownership in writing before registering the composition.
- Copyright Protection Duration: Composition copyrights generally last for the life of the author plus 70 years.
- Copyright Enforcement: If you suspect copyright infringement of your composition, consult an attorney to discuss legal options.
Remember, copyright registration is not mandatory, but it provides significant protection for your creative work and enables you to assert your ownership rights. By registering your composition copyright using the PA form on the U.S. Copyright Office’s eCO system, you safeguard your intellectual property and increase your chances of receiving compensation for its use.
