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How to Register Songs with ASCAP/BMI: A Step-by-Step Guide for Songwriters

Updated: Nov 5


If you are a songwriter, independent music producer, or entrepreneur in the music industry, understanding how to register songs with ASCAP or BMI is crucial to ensuring you collect the royalties you deserve.


Many creators make critical mistakes when it comes to performance rights organizations (PROs) and copyright registration, so this guide will walk you through the process and highlight the legal nuances you need to know.


1. What Are ASCAP and BMI?


ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers) and BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) are two of the primary performance rights organizations (PROs) in the United States. These organizations collect performance royalties when your music is played publicly, on radio, streaming platforms, live venues, and more.


It is important to note that registering with a PRO does not give you copyright protection. PROs handle royalty collection, but legal rights, including the ability to sue for infringement, require registration with the U.S. Copyright Office at copyright.gov.


2. Why Registering Early Matters


One of the most common mistakes songwriters make is registering their songs with ASCAP or BMI after the release. If you wait months or even years to register, you can only collect royalties from the date of registration forward, you will not receive retroactive royalties for prior plays.


Timing matters, so register your songs as soon as they are released.


3. Steps


Step 1: Set Up Your PRO Account


To start, choose your PRO (ASCAP or BMI) and create an account. During registration, you will provide:


  • Song title

  • Song length

  • Names of all authors and contributors


Do not upload audio files; PROs only require metadata, not recordings. If you are a music producer, register only final works, not drafts. Instrumental or fully completed tracks should be registered to ensure royalties are collected properly.


Step 2: Register Each Song Individually


If you are releasing an album, remember: each song must be registered separately. Each track has its own ISRC number from your distributor, and royalties are collected per individual work. Do not register an entire album as a single song.


Step 3: Disclose Samples or AI Use


If your track contains samples from other songs, you must disclose them during registration. Loops from sample packs you purchased typically do not require disclosure, but any licensed material from another artist must be noted. Similarly, if you use AI in the creation process, disclaim the AI-generated portion in the copyright registration. Your music must not be 100% AI-generated, but minor use must be accurately documented.


Step 4: Understand the Role of a Publisher


Some creators believe they need a publisher to collect publishing royalties. This is not true. PROs allow you to claim both the writer’s share and the publisher’s share yourself.


  • ASCAP splits royalties as 100% writer and 100% publisher, allowing you to collect both shares

  • BMI uses a 200% model, meaning you collect both the writer and publisher shares for a total of 200%


If you choose to use a publishing company, you can still register your works and collect royalties, but it is optional.


Step 5: Copyright Registration


Once your song is registered with a PRO, it is crucial to register the work with the U.S. Copyright Office. Here is a simplified process based on professional guidance:


  1. Go to copyright.gov and log into the eCO registration system.

  2. Select the type of work:

    • Sound recording for songs

    • Literary work for lyrics

    • Motion picture for music videos or films

  3. Enter the title, date of completion, and date of first publication.

  4. Add authors and claimants. If registering through a company, select “work made for hire.”

  5. Upload a copy of the creative work. This is used as evidence in any legal disputes.

  6. Enter your contact information accurately; any typo can result in your application being closed and your fee lost.

  7. Review your submission, pay the filing fee ($65 for published, $85 for unpublished), and submit.


Step 6: Maintain Accurate Records


Keep track of all registrations with ASCAP, BMI, and the Copyright Office. PROs and copyright registration are distinct: PROs help you collect royalties, while copyright protects your legal rights. Both are essential in the modern music business, especially in light of new developments like AI-related copyright disputes.


4. Conclusion


Registering your songs with ASCAP or BMI is only part of the process. To protect your music legally and maximize revenue, always:


  1. Register each song individually

  2. Disclose samples and AI contributions when applicable

  3. Claim both writer and publisher shares if no publisher is used

  4. Register your works with the U.S. Copyright Office


Taking these steps ensures you can collect royalties, enforce your rights, and avoid common mistakes that many independent songwriters make.


👉 For more guidance on music rights and copyright registration, keep following our educational updates and legal insights. Protect your music, protect your income, and keep creating confidently.




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