The cost to copyright a book depends on the type of registration and the method of filing. For electronic filing, the fees are generally the most affordable:

Single author, same claimant, one work, not for hire: $45 — this option applies when you’re the sole author, the claimant (the person or entity claiming copyright), and the work is not created as part of employment.
Standard application: $65 — this is the most common option for individual book copyrights, covering more complex cases like co-authored works or works made for hire.
Paper filing: $125 — this option is more expensive due to the manual processing involved, and it includes forms such as PA (Performing Arts), SR (Sound Recordings), TX (Literary Works), VA (Visual Arts), and SE (Single Issue of a Serial).

Want to get more information? Learn more about copyright costs in our article “How Much Does it Cost to Get a Copyright?”

For group registrations, which allow multiple creative works to be registered at the US Copyright Office website under one application:

Group registration of unpublished works: $85 — this allows you to register up to ten unpublished works by the same author, providing a cost-effective way to protect multiple works at once.
Group registration for short online literary works: $65 — this option is tailored for shorter works such as blog posts or social media content, allowing registration of up to 50 items published online.

Additionally, there are other specialized fees, such as:

Preregistration of certain unpublished works: $200 — this is typically used for works that have a history of pre-release infringement, like movies or music that are at risk of being leaked before their official release.
Supplementary registration for corrections or amplifications:

Electronic filing: $100

Paper filing: $150 — these fees apply if you need to make corrections or add information to a previously registered copyright claim.

Overall, while registering your copyright isn't free, these costs are a worthwhile investment for protecting your intellectual property, especially if your book is commercially valuable or at risk of unauthorized use.

To ensure successful registration for your copyright online, consult an intellectual property attorney today at Copyrightable by Trademarkia.

FAQs

Do I need to copyright my book before publishing?

You don't need to copyright your book before publishing, as copyright protection is automatically granted when your work is fixed in a tangible form, such as written on paper or typed on a computer. However, registering your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office provides legal advantages, like the ability to sue for infringement and seek statutory damages if your work is used unlawfully.

How do I copyright my book for free?

Copyright protection is free and automatic as soon as you create your work. To strengthen your legal standing, you can register your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office, but this involves a fee. Registration isn't mandatory but highly recommended if you want to enforce your rights more effectively in legal disputes.

How do I protect my books from being copied?

Registering your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office is essential to protect your books as it provides public proof of ownership and the right to enforce your copyright in court. Additionally, using digital rights management (DRM) for e-books and adding watermarks can help deter unauthorized copying of digital versions.

Are copyrights worth it?

Yes, copyrights are worth it because they provide you with exclusive rights to your work, including the ability to control its reproduction, distribution, and adaptation. Registering your copyright enhances your ability to enforce these rights, allowing you to take legal action against infringement, which can be especially valuable for protecting your creative and financial interests.

How long does it take to copyright a book?

Registering a copyright for a book typically takes about three to eight months when filed electronically through the U.S. Copyright Office. The duration can vary based on the submission method and any complexities in the application process.

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Joshua Julien Brouard

AUTHOR

Based in our Pretoria office, Joshua is a digital content manager at Trademarkia and has extensive experience writing on legal subjects. He has a bachelor of commerce in law, as well as several marketing certifications. He is also soon to complete his postgraduate in marketing management. In his free time, Joshua loves traveling with his many rescue dogs.