How can you get a copyright on book for cheap or less then the usual?

Question

Im writing a story and i want to get it copyrighted so u knwo but i want to know a way to do it with out spending a lot of money?

Answer 1

The comment indicating you should mail the work to yourself is what is known as a 'poor man's copyright' and it provides no legal protection whatsoever.

A work that is written receives an automatic copyright the minute you put it in tangible form, that is, the minute you write it, you own a copyright on it, as long as it is your own original work. You do not have to REGISTER the copyright in order to own the copyright.

However, if you want a better protection and the ability to sue for damages if someone steals your work, you will want to register the copyright and that will cost you $45.00.

I am an editor and an author and I have frequently worked with authors both with and without registered copyrights... most of my work is registered, but not all of it. I wrote an article that explains in simple terms what the difference between registered and non registered copyrights - the link is below if you'd like to read it.

Answer 2

You can do this at the US Copyright Office – see the last 2 links in the source box. The application is fairly simple & the cost is $45 per application.

Despite what others state, a "poor man's" copyright is NOT the same as registering it. Here's what the US Copyright Office has to say:

"The practice of sending a copy of your own work to yourself is sometimes called a 'poor man’s copyright.' There is no provision in the copyright law regarding any such type of protection, and it is not a substitute for registration."

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 3

Your work is copyrighted as soon as you produce it, and no registration is required in all 162 countries which recognize the Berne Convention on Copyright, .

This includes the USA, The European Union, and all members of the WTO (World Trade Organization). For a list, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_party_to_the_Berne_Convention

In the United States registering a copyright is necessary only if you wish to collect damages in a court of law against someone who may have used your work without permission.

The copyright is there, the courts can stop them from using your work, but if you want money for damages, you must have registered your copyright.

Answer 4

in accordance to modern copyright regulation, a (c) isn't required for any artwork created after 1989, in spite of the incontrovertible fact that that's recommended. if the artwork does grow to be contested, then you could sign up it. in spite of the incontrovertible fact that, using for a copyright is on no account a bad thought, basically a sprint pointless. Provably publishing your e book will solidify it as your individual copyrighted belongings. do you already know the least confusing thank you to do this?? i'm going to tell you... in accordance to the regulation, any piece of counsel despatched with the aid of digital mail is seen revealed. Even casual greetings are revealed fabric, so continually be careful what you're saying in an digital mail while you evaluate that's utilized against you. this means that in case you digital mail your self a replica of your individual e book, that's revealed. You dont could deliver it with the aid of postage. If all and sundry tries to thieve your e book, your digital mail would be evidence in courtroom that it is your revealed fabric and no-possible contest it.

Answer 5

It's free. All you have to do is include a notice in the book somewhere that says that it is copyrighted. E.g.,
"Copyright (C) John Doe, 2006. All rights reserved."

Answer 6

Authorship is established as soon as you write it. If you are really worried about someone stealing your work, print out a hard copy, sign and date it and snail mail it to yourself. Don't open it though! I know this sounds strange but, you will have an official dated document proving that the work is yours. Finally, don't submit your work or show anyone until you have received your work back in the mail.

Answer 7

The copyright is free and automatic - it's yours until you give or sell it to someone else. It's the copying that'll cost ya.

Answer 8

http://www.copyright.gov/