It is very important for every writer to protect their work with a copyright. You will find that it is quite simple and, for the protection it provides, very inexpensive. We here at Writer’s World strongly believe that every author should get their work copyrighted as soon as they feel they have completed a work that they feel is ready to be presented to the general public, which includes literary agents and publishers alike.

Before you contact the Copyright Office you must be aware that they cannot offer you advice on how to settle disputes over copyright ownership, law suits, royalty payments, getting published or finding a literary agent or publisher. They are only there to protect your work.

 Follow these simple step-by-step instructions for procuring a copyright and avoid the many problems that could arise if you neglect this very important aspect of your writing career.

The first thing you will want to do is contact the Copyright Office and order Form TX, Appendix B. This is a short, two page form that is used to register, "textual works". You can write or call the Copyright Office at:

Publications Section

Copyright Office

Library of Congress

Washington D.C. 20559

Call and order forms at: (202)287-9100

For more information call the Information Specialists at: (202)707-3000

While you are waiting for your form to arrive you should take the time to go through your entire work again and give it that final professional polish. If you have not shown your work to anyone now is the perfect time. A friend, English teacher or freelance editor can offer you a lot of insight into your writing. It best serves your purpose if you send in a highly polished version of your work You will have to send in two typed—handed written copies will not be considered--copies of your work. Never send your original copy to anyone, you should always have a version of your work on hand.

Once you have received Form TX, Appendix B you will want to fill it out completely. Use a blue or black pen, or better yet type in the information.

You will need a check, money order or bank draft made out to the Register of Copyrights for $20.00.

Include the two copies of your work, completed Form TX, Appendix B and your payment of $20.00 in one package. All of these materials must be included in the same package. Multiple packages for a single application will not be considered. These deposited materials will not be returned to you.

It can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks to receive your copyright in the mail. You can call the Information Specialists at (202) 707-3000 to get a more precise length of time.

Once you receive your copyright you can feel confident that your work is protected and you can begin sending your work out to prospective agents and publishers.

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