How to Properly Copyright Artwork

Printing and Mailing Copyright Form

• 1). Make two photocopies or photographs of the artwork to which you want to claim copyright. Unpublished work only requires you to have one copy. The photographs must be clear and large enough to include all the details of your work. Unclear photographs are unacceptable, and your copies will not be returned.
  
  
• 2). Navigate your Web browser to the U.S Copyright Office site. Ensure you have the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader. It enables you to print out Form CO, which replaces the old VA form.
  
  
• 3). Save the form to your computer and type in the necessary information. Print it and ensure that the barcodes in the form are clear, unsmudged and with no fades. If the barcodes are unclear, the Copyright Office will not be able to process your form.
  
  
• 4). According to the U.S. Copyright Office, the fee, as of 2010, to process an application through eCO is $50. If you alter the form by hand after printing, the fee increases to $65 for standard paper filing. Include a check or money order, payable to "Register of Copyrights."
  
  
• 5). Place your completed Form CO, two copies or photographs of your artwork in the envelope along with your check or money order. Mail the package to:
  
  Library of Congress
  Copyright Office
  101 Independence Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC 20559-6211