Should You Formally Copyright Your Work?

As an author, your work is already protected by U.S. copyright law the moment you create it and fix it in a tangible form—whether that’s a manuscript saved on your laptop or notes written in a notebook. You automatically own the copyright. No forms. No fees. No registration required.

That’s why 9 Iron Media recommends including a clear copyright notice in the front matter of every book or eBook before publishing. Under current U.S. law, your work is protected for your lifetime plus 70 years, regardless of whether it is formally registered.

Formal registration with the U.S. Copyright Office is not required—but it does provide additional legal leverage if your work is ever copied, redistributed, or misused.

What Formal Registration Does (and Doesn’t Do)

Registering your copyright doesn’t create ownership—you already have that. What it does is strengthen your ability to enforce your rights if infringement occurs.

The registration process is relatively straightforward using the online application system. Authors are asked to provide:

• Basic information about the work (title, author, publication status)

• A copy of the work itself

9 Iron Best Practice: A PDF proof from your publishing platform is an excellent deposit copy and works well for most authors.

Most independent authors will use either:

• A Single Application ($45) if they are the sole author and rights holder, or

• The Standard Application ($65) for all other situations

Processing times vary (often a few months). Once approved, you’ll receive an official copyright registration certificate, which serves as formal proof of registration.

Why You Might Choose to Register

Formal registration becomes especially valuable when your work has commercial or long-term value:

• You can file a copyright infringement lawsuit in federal court (registration is required)

• You may qualify for statutory damages and attorney’s fees, which can significantly exceed actual damages

• Your ownership is recorded in a public federal database, strengthening your position in disputes, takedowns, and licensing conversations

In short: registration doesn’t create copyright—it locks in your enforcement options.

What Should You Do Next?

1. Publish your book or eBook.

2. Decide whether registration makes sense for your goals. If your work will be widely distributed, licensed, or reused commercially, registration is often a smart move.

3. File online for the fastest processing and lowest cost.

4. Keep your registration certificate on file for contracts, disputes, and future opportunities.

Formal copyright registration is a small, optional investment that can provide meaningful protection as your work—and audience—grows.

If you have questions or want a walkthrough of the process, 9 Iron Media is always here to help you make the decision that fits your publishing strategy.