How Long Does It Take to Get a Copyright? What to Expect

Securing a copyright is important for protecting your creative work, whether it’s a novel, song, or film.

But how long does the process actually take? The timeline can vary depending on the copyright registration application method and other factors.

If you’re a writer, musician, or entrepreneur wanting to safeguard your intellectual property, knowing how long copyright registration takes and what to do if there are delays can help you avoid potential problems.

Let’s break down the process so you know what to expect.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Copyright?

The time it takes to get a copyright registration mainly depends on how you submit the application.

According to the U.S. Copyright Office, registering your unpublished work through online applications usually takes around 3 months to process. Meanwhile, paper applications can take around 8 months.

These timelines reflect average processing times, influenced by the submission type and the workload of the Copyright Office website.

Submitting online through the electronic Copyright Office (eCO) allows for faster processing and review. In contrast, paper applications involve manual handling and additional administrative steps, which extend the timeline.

What Factors Affect the Processing Time of Copyright Registration?

The type of work — a book, song, movie, sound recording, or artwork — generally doesn’t affect how long registration takes. However, certain elements may speed up or delay your registration.

Understanding these factors can help you navigate the process more smoothly and avoid delays.

Method of Filing

The filing method is a key factor since applicants are encouraged to use the eCO online system for faster processing. The online system is more efficient, while paper submissions require additional steps that slow down the process.

Completeness and Accuracy of the Application

Incomplete or inaccurate applications lead to delays. If the Copyright Office needs more information or corrections, the processing time can be extended by weeks or months.

To avoid this, ensure all required fields are completed and all necessary documents, such as copies of the work, are included when submitting. This helps prevent requests for additional information, which can significantly slow down the process.

Backlog and Volume of Applications

The U.S. Copyright Office receives a number of applications daily, which they process on a first-come, first-served basis. High volumes of applications, such as during legislative changes or spikes in creative output, may extend typical processing times.

Complexity of Ownership

Applications with complex ownership, such as works with multiple owners or derivative works, often take longer to process. The Copyright Office must verify ownership claims and ensure the registration accurately reflects all contributors, especially for derivative works.

Errors or Omissions in the Application

Errors, like missing a required deposit or omitting critical information, will delay the process. If the Copyright Office identifies an error, they will request corrections, which can add weeks or months to the timeline.

Reviewing submission guidelines carefully before filing can help prevent these delays.

Can You Expedite the Copyright Registration Process?

Yes, you can expedite the copyright registration process through the special handling procedure offered by the U.S. Copyright Office, but this option is only available in specific situations.

Special handling can reduce the processing time to as little as five business days, compared to the usual months-long wait. However, this service is limited to certain cases and requires a significant fee.

This expedited copyright registration is effective in the following circumstances:

The fee for special handling is $800 per application, much higher than the standard fee of $65 for online submissions or $125 for paper applications. This fee is applied per work, so multiple works needing expedited service will each incur the $800 charge.

What to Do If Your Copyright Registration Is Delayed?

Delays when registering your work can be frustrating, especially when you need the copyright registration certificate for business purposes or legal protection.

Although copyright protection is automatic upon creation of the work, registration is necessary, especially if people infringe on your copyright. By completing the application early, you become eligible for statutory damages and attorneys’ fees in copyright claims.

If your application is taking longer than expected, there are steps you can take to resolve the situation. Here’s what you can do if your registration process is taking too long:

Check the Status of Your Application

The first step is to check the status of your application. If you register a copyright through the Copyright Office’s online eCO system, you can log in to the portal to track your application’s progress.

This is the quickest way to see if your application is still under review or if there are any issues that need attention.

For paper applications, there is no online tracking option, but you can follow up directly with the Copyright Office.

Contact the U.S. Copyright Office

If your application has surpassed the standard processing times, you should contact the Copyright Office for an update. You can reach out via phone or email, and they can let you know if the delay is due to volume or other factors.

Make sure to have your case or reference number handy to help them locate your file quickly and provide accurate information.

Review Your Application for Completeness

Delays often happen because of incomplete or incorrect applications. If the Copyright Office needs more documentation or if there’s an issue with your deposit copy, they may reach out for clarification.

It’s a good idea to review your application to ensure everything is in order.

When you contact the US Copyright Office, ask if they need more information from you to move forward.