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Originally Posted by deonk1  Not sure how it works in the states, but it's also recommended that someone else signs and verifies it's your work too, cause in Canada the sign it, date it and send it idea doesn't always hold up in court. I know in Canada if you go to the intellectual property office it's only $50-60 to have them verify the copyright on smaller written works. Or at least it was that a few years ago. |
Here is some info about this practice from the FAQ on copyright.gov:
"I’ve heard about a “poor man’s copyright.” What is it?
The practice of sending a copy of your own work to yourself is sometimes called a “poor man’s copyright.” There is no provision in the copyright law regarding any such type of protection, and it is not a substitute for registration."
When is my work protected?
Your work is under copyright protection the moment it is created and fixed in a tangible form that it is perceptible either directly or with the aid of a machine or device.
Do I have to register with your office to be protected?
No. In general, registration is voluntary. Copyright exists from the moment the work is created. You will have to register, however, if you wish to bring a lawsuit for infringement of a U.S. work. See Circular 1,
Copyright Basics, section “
Copyright Registration.”
Why should I register my work if copyright protection is automatic?
Registration is recommended for a number of reasons. Many choose to register their works because they wish to have the facts of their copyright on the public record and have a certificate of registration. Registered works may be eligible for statutory damages and attorney's fees in successful litigation. Finally, if registration occurs within 5 years of publication, it is considered
prima facie evidence in a court of law. See Circular 1,
Copyright Basics, section “
Copyright Registration” and
Circular 38b,
Highlights of Copyright Amendments Contained in the Uruguay Round Agreements Act (URAA), on non-U.S. works.
I’ve heard about a “poor man’s copyright.” What is it?
The practice of sending a copy of your own work to yourself is sometimes called a “poor man’s copyright.” There is no provision in the copyright law regarding any such type of protection, and it is not a substitute for registration
Copyright is It's quite complicated....I from what I've learned you can't copyright an idea. But, you need to have something in more tangible form.
U.S. Copyright Office - Copyright in General (FAQ)
Good luck with your project. We'll definitely want to subscribe!