MightyRecruiterYou have decided to publish your software and introduce your consumers to an innovative technology that will change the way they do business. Now is the time to register for a copyright that will protect your creation from infringement and give you all rights to ownership. Taking some time to look over, fill out and submit your application will ensure you have done it correctly and that everything will be properly recorded with the U.S. Copyright Office. With this knowledge, you can confidently publish your software and be able to quickly and legally file a lawsuit if infringement ever occurs. Here are some simple steps to creating an acceptable application.
Use Type or Black Ink
Whenever you are filling out a legal document of any kind, it is recommended that you use black pen ink or typed font. Using pencils, colored pens or markers can cause written descriptions to become faded, smeared or altogether unintelligible. Some application screeners won’t accept anything but black ink, and any other color will be disregarded as unacceptable. Whether you are filling out your application online, make sure you use a clear font that isn’t too fancy.
Ensure Photocopy Quality
Photocopies and printouts of application forms are usually acceptable, but must be approved. The U.S. Copyright Office requires any photocopies and printouts to be on white paper that is 8 ½- inches by 11-inches. Additionally, make sure your printer ink isn’t running low and that all of the fill-ins are legible. Some computers may distort the alignment which could make certain answers appear above or below the designated line for answering. Adjust alignment as needed to make your documents as clear as possible.
Be Clear and Concise
The most effective applications articulate the necessary information in phrases that are clear and concise. Be forward and honest in the information you provide. Answer questions with enough detail to give the reader insight, but without repetition or wordiness. Take the time to read through the entire application before you begin filling in answers. This will ensure you are answering the questions in the correct context without omitting any valuable information. The more concise you are and the clearer your language is, the better your chances are at submitting a perfectly acceptable application that won’t result in a request to resubmit.
Proofread and Peer-Review
Before submitting your completed application, re-read the material and make sure you have filled in every single blank. Verify the information you have provided is accurate, grammatically correct and answers each question appropriately. Have a few different people look over the application to provide their insight. Another set of eyes may catch an error that you overlooked along the way.
You may also consider talking with a legal professional who can provide you with additional insight and education regarding copyright law. This can increase your understanding of the process so that you’re better able to recognize and handle potential infringers once you’re approved.
Finally, make sure you have everything together that needs to be submitted. Include the application itself, an application fee and a photocopy of the copyrighted work. This compilation will then be submitted to the U.S. Copyright Office where it will be looked over to ensure accuracy, readability and legitimacy. Be sure to respond promptly to any request for additional information.
Where to Go
All of the fill-in forms you need to apply can be found on the U.S. Copyright Office website. Straightforward instructions and guidelines will direct you through the entire process and prompt you from one step to the next. If you follow the instructions carefully and apply the tips mentioned above, you will be well on your way to creating and submitting a perfectly acceptable application to begin legally protecting your innovation right away.
Legal Disclaimer
The content on our website is only meant to provide general information and is not legal advice. We make our best efforts to make sure the information is accurate, but we cannot guarantee it. Do not rely on the content as legal advice. For assistance with legal problems or for a legal inquiry please contact you attorney.