What is a Copyright?

Copyrights protect original works of authorship including literary, dramatic (e.g., Hamilton, Wicked), musical, and artistic works, such as poetry, novels (e.g., The Great Gatsby, Moby-Dick, To Kill a Mockingbird), movies (Star Wars, The Sound of Music, Gone with the Wind), songs (Billie Jean, Stairway to Heaven, Imagine), computer software (Microsoft Windows), and architecture (the design of the Freedom Tower).

How is a Copyright different from a Patent or a Trademark?

A Copyright protects original works of authorship, while a patent protects inventions or discoveries. Ideas and discoveries are not protected by copyright law, although the way in which they are expressed may be. A trademark protects words, phrases, symbols, or designs identifying the source of the goods or services of one party and distinguishing them from those of others.

How do I Protect my Copyright?

To protect a Copyright, you must file a Copyright Application with the U.S. Copyright Office (USCO), a division of the Library of Commerce.

How long does the Copyright Registration Process Take?

Once filed, you will typically receive your Copyright Registration within 2 to 3 months. Of note, for a higher government filing fee this process can be completed in only a few days.

How long does a Copyright last?

In the U.S., a Copyright currently lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years.

Who is the Author of a Copyrighted Work?

The author is the person who actually creates the Copyrighted Work (e.g., the person who wrote the book or song or performed the music on stage).

Can a Copyright be Renewed?

No. Once Copyright protection has expired anyone is free to copy and distribute the formerly Copyrighted work.

Does a U.S. Copyright protect my work Outside of the U.S.?

Yes. Based upon treaties entered into between the U.S. and most developed nations, U.S. Copyrights are protected under International Law.

Can non-U.S. Citizens register their works in the United States?

Yes. Any work that is protected by U.S. copyright law can be registered. This includes works of foreign origin or works created by non-U.S. Citizens.

Why should I have The Trademark Company protect my Copyright?

We’ve registered thousands of Copyrights for our customers. And with the USCO’s antiquated computer system, it’s good to have both our experience and state-of-the-art proprietary technology tracking your application all the way through registration.

Copyright FAQs