How to Copyright an Idea (US)

Steps

1. Understand the limitations of copyright protection for ideas. Abstract ideas which are only in your head are not copyrightable. That said, you can copyright tangible forms of creative expression which are recorded on paper, CD, DVD or similar.
2. Know what is protected by copyright.You can copyright a number of different kinds of work, including:
   • Literary works, including computer programs
   • Musical works
   • Dramatic works
   • Pantomimes and choreographic works
   • Pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works
   • Motion pictures and other audiovisual works; and
   • Sound recordings and architectural works.
3. Know what is not protected. There are a number of items you can't copyright. They include:
   • Names, titles, short phrases and slogans (consider registering a trademark instead)
   • Familiar symbols or designs
   • Lists of items as opposed to explanations
   • Work consisting of common property, like the standard calendar.
4. Learn how to secure a copyright. Here's some good news. When a work is created, a copyright of it is automatically secured. If you like you can add the copyright symbol to your work.
5. Make it known. By registering your copyright, you establish a public record of your copyright which is necessary to secure before you can file an infringement suit. To register your copyright:
   • visit the Library of Congress's web site and fill out the appropriate form related to the type of work you intend to register.
   • pay the fee; currently (2008), there is a $45 fee for a copyright. Make your check payable to The Register Of Copyrights.
   • place your application, fee, and a copy of your work to into an envelope and mail it to:
     • The Library of Congress, Copyright Office 101 Independence Avenue, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20559.
6. Keep the coverage up to date. Your registered copyright will remain valid 70 years after your death. If that's not long enough, you can fill out form RE to renew your copyright.

Video

Tips

• You can find out more information about copyright at the international level by visiting the World Intellectual Property Organization, known as WIPO for short. WIPO is a specialized agency of the United Nations and it is through this forum that all member states seek to improve copyright protection on a worldwide basis.
• Inventions cannot be copyrighted; for that you would need a patent.

Sources and Citations

• VideoJug A video demonstration of copyrighting an idea; original source of article. Shared with permission and appreciation.

1. ? http://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ1a.html

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