how do you get a copyright?

Question

any tips helpful, such as websites and where to go and costs!

Answer 1

You can do this at the US Copyright Office – see the last link in the source box. There are 5 different applications depending on what you're wanting to protect. 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

Firstly you can't copyright an idea, only a design or a process.

However if you make 3 copies and put them in an envelope, then put the stamps of the "seals" on the back of the envelope and mail them to yourself, you will find they are hand stamped. This is evidence that you can give to a judge as the date of your establishment or conception.

Protection is better than defense in law.

Answer 3

It's OK to have multiples of some programs. If you're uncertain just Google the process name and check whether it's a virus. You shouldn't have more than one Firefox process though. Try ending them and see what happens.

Answer 4

Depends on what you're copyrighting.
Technically it exists from the moment you create something, but you should also send 3 copies of whatever it is to the library of congress. check out their site for more details.

Answer 5

everything you write is copyrighted though it cannot be held up in court. you need legal verification. go to http://www.copyright.gov/ and register your work.