What are Government Filing Fees?

At Song Safety, we assist musicians in navigating the copyright process by simplifying the steps required to protect their music. However, it's important to note that the copyright process itself is managed by the U.S. government. The United States Copyright Office is responsible for filing copyrights and maintaining the intellectual property records for music. Song Safety does not control these records or fees, but we help make the process easier for musicians by guiding them through it.

Overview of Copyright Filing Fees

Before we explain how government filing fees work, it’s essential to understand the types of copyrights that can be filed to protect your music. Knowing the difference between Work of Performing Arts and Sound Recording copyrights will help you determine which type applies to your creations and how to file them effectively.

Work of Performing Arts Copyright

This copyright protects the composition of a song, including the melody, harmony, and lyrics. It covers the creative elements of the performance itself, ensuring legal protection for the artist's original expression.

Sound Recording Copyright

This copyright safeguards the actual recording of a song. It protects the specific performance captured in a recording, such as a track on a CD, digital file, or streaming service.

Choosing the Right Copyright

This is where Song Safety steps in. Our platform simplifies the process by guiding you through a short survey about your music. Once completed, we gather the necessary information to file your copyright correctly. Whether you need to file a Work of Performing Arts, a Sound Recording, or both, we streamline the process for you.

How Government Filing Fees Work

When filing copyrights through Song Safety, musicians will be required to pay government fees, which vary based on the number of copyrights filed. Below is an overview of typical charges:

1. Single Copyright Filing

   • Filing one Sound Recording copyright incurs a $65 fee from the U.S. Copyright Office.

2. Multiple Copyright Filings

   • Filing two copyrights, such as one Sound Recording and one Work of Performing Arts, will cost $130.

3. Combined Filings

   • In some cases, both types of copyrights can be filed together for a $65 fee. Song Safety can help determine when combined filings are applicable.

Example fees:

• 1 Sound Recording copyright: $65
• 2 copyrights (e.g., Sound Recording + Work of Performing Arts): $130
• Combined filing (when applicable): $65

Please note, these fees are charged by the U.S. government, not Song Safety. We are here to facilitate the process and ensure that your copyrights are filed quickly and correctly.