How to Copyright: The Poor Man's Answer

How do I copyright my writing? This is a common question amongst freelance writers and many bloggers.

When I was younger, I once heard a news announcer explain a “Poor Man’s Copyright.” She said that the best way to ensure proof of your copyright was to follow these steps:

1. Take the composition and put it in a self-addressed envelope.
2. On the outside of the envelope write “re: [short description of contents].”
3. Then, send the envelope to yourself through the mail.
4. Once you receive the envelope in the mail, do not open it.
5. Verify that the stamped date is readable on the envelope.
6. Keep the envelope sealed, and place it and its contents into a fireproof safe.

This way, if someone ever tries to use your work, you can bring them to court, whip out the envelope and prove that the composition originated with you.

As a result of this newsworthy advice, I have many articles, songs, and short stories all written by a little fourth-grade me, tucked safely away in an old memory box.

Can you imagine if all of modern-day bloggers did this with each post? Well, that would definitely boost the economy, at least. The post office would be back in business, and the old snail-mail business might be able to stop increasing the cost of postage stamps.

Back on planet Earth, however, a little known fact about copyright notice will help alleviate the anxiety now existing on your tongue (back in the old days, we use to lick our stamps to make them sticky): Nearly all original creations are considered copyrighted upon completion. As a result, you should never take someone’s work and pass it off as your own, even if you are not doing so for a profit.

While notice is not necessary, it does help keep the would-be thieves and plagiarizing scrubs at bay. Moreover, attaching your name to an article in a copyright notice will also help tag you to the article if-ever someone tries to repost the article on the Internet.

If you want to put a notice on your work, the legally enforceable form is:

“Copyright [date or year of creation] – [present year] by [author, or whomever has the rights to the composition].”

I suggest always spelling out “Copyright,” because it is always recognized. While © is also recognized, many people use (C), because they cannot insert the actual copyright symbol. Unfortunately, this notation is not recognized as legally enforceable in most cases. Therefore, avoid it.

Now, with more confidence in your copyright, go forth and share your knowledge. The world is waiting. Oh. Was that a little dramatic?

*For information on how to republish or use articles found on this site, please e-mail Jessica@ksparalegal.com.