Copyright.gov serves as the official online portal for the U.S. Copyright Office, enabling creators, legal professionals, and rights holders to formally register original works of authorship, record transfers of copyright ownership, and access the public catalog of copyright records. The site facilitates the statutory process for securing federal copyright protection, providing a browser-first interface for submitting applications, managing existing registrations, and researching intellectual property rights.
Copyright.gov Website Full Guide (2026)
US Copyright Office.
Updated May 26, 2026
No screenshot available
Introduction
Key Features
Core Capabilities
Electronic Copyright Office (eCO) application portal
Public Catalog search interface for registered work
Recordation of documents pertaining to copyright transfer
Online deposit submission for various work type
Additional Details
Designated Agent Directory for DMCA notice compliance
Statutory licensing information and royalty payment form
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request submission
Copyright Claims Board (CCB) filing system acce
Use Cases
Securing Federal Protection for Original Work
An independent author utilizes the platform to register their newly published novel, ensuring legal standing for infringement claims and establishing a public record of ownership
Managing Client Copyright Portfolio
A paralegal uses the eCO system to file multiple copyright applications on behalf of a client's creative agency, tracking application statuses and conducting due diligence searches on existing registration
Formalizing Rights for Content Distribution
A music publisher records a copyright assignment for a new song catalog, ensuring proper chain of title for licensing and distribution agreements across various platform
How to Use Copyright.gov
Accessing the Electronic Copyright Office (eCO)
Navigate to , locate the 'Register a Copyright' section, and click the link to access the eCO system. Log in or create an account to begin a new application
Copyright.gov Alternatives
Corsearch
Trademark clearance & protection services.
USPTO.gov
US Patent and Trademark Office.
Trademarkia
Trademark search & registration services.
WIPO
World Intellectual Property Organization.
About Copyright.gov
Useful Links
1 totalVideo Mentions
Copyright.gov Status
Service is operational


