how do I do copyrights for my work?

Question

I just want a simple answer I guess. I've heard about registering and all sorts of other things? Is it possible to not have to register anywhere and still make sure I get my own works copyrighted? This is mostly for my poetry. I want to post it online, but to put a © symbol next to it? Will this do or are there more steps?

Answer 1

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 2

No they are not protected by copyright and they cannot be protected by copyright by you or anyone else. No one owns these symbols though their form and meaning is covered by international legal treaties. There is no such thing as 'copyrighting' something. It is a meaningless expression and shows a complete misunderstanding of the principles. Copyright (literally the right to copy) applies to all artistic and creative works (taken to include software code), regardless of its merit, from the moment the work is created. No additional action is required for the right to exist and there is no cost involved. The right belongs to the creator of the work though, as with any other property right, it can be sold, assigned or licensed. Copyright applies even if you don't use the copyright symbol or use the word 'copyright'. Despite that, it can be a good idea to use a formal copyright notice (in the form "Copyright, the name of the right holder and the year') as it serves to remind other people that they cannot copy your creative work .... though it doesn't seem to stop people copying music, software or videos.

Answer 3

That circle-c thing is a common law copyright and it works. (I'm old and don't know how to make that symbol). Then apply for a copyright with the Copyright Department of the Federal Trade Commission In D.C. You can download any form from government websites, but you'll have to look. I don't know name of sites. Pay your fee; get your copyright. Congratulations. Send a copy to the Library of Congress for the National Archives for prosterity and fun, but that's not required. Could be part of our history someday, though.

Answer 4

You can do that. or to register it. Send in as many poems as you want and an application with 30$ to the copyright place. copyright.gov i think
but the simple act of using a C works fine. because the law is, once its created, the creator owns it. copyright is just so you can sue someone for using it with out your permission

Answer 5

Go to: copyright.gov