DIY Filing vs. Filing Service: Which Should I Choose?

Both paths lead to the same copyright registration. The difference is only who handles the paperwork. Here's how to decide what's right for you.

What's the Same (Most Important)

Regardless of which path you choose:

• Same documentation quality - Professional, filing-ready materials
• Same evaluation and guidance - Expert assessment of your copyright readiness
• Same Copyright Office review - Your application receives identical treatment
• Same processing time - 8-12 weeks typical for both paths
• Same copyright rights - Registration provides identical legal protection

The filing service is purely about convenience and representation, not documentation quality or approval likelihood.

DIY Filing: Do It Yourself

What's Included (Free with Assessment)

• Complete filing-ready documentation
• Step-by-step filing guide with screenshots
• eCO system walkthrough
• Field-by-field instructions
• Troubleshooting guide
• Direct Copyright Office links

Your Responsibilities

• Create Copyright Office eCO account
• Fill out online application form (using our guide)
• Upload your audio files and documentation
• Pay $15 Copyright Office fee directly
• Monitor application status
• Respond to any Copyright Office questions

Time Investment

Most creators complete DIY filing in 1-2 hours. The process is straightforward when following our guide.

Cost

$15 Copyright Office fee (you pay directly to them)

Best For:

• Creators comfortable with online forms
• Budget-conscious musicians
• Those who want direct control
• People who enjoy learning new systems
• Creators with time to dedicate to filing

Success Rate

With our documentation and guide, most creators successfully file DIY. The eCO system is bureaucratic but not technically difficult.

Filing Service: We Handle It

What's Included

• Complete filing process handled by our team
• File collection and organization
• Direct submission to Copyright Office
• Official representation throughout process
• All correspondence handling
• Response to clarification requests
• Status tracking and updates
• Registration completion notification
• Copyright Office $15 fee included

Your Responsibilities

• Upload audio files when prompted (one-time)
• Respond to questions about your creative process if Copyright Office requests
• Review and approve any substantive documentation changes

Time Investment

Minimal. File upload takes a few minutes, then we handle everything.

Cost

• Single Track: $75 (includes Copyright Office fee)
• 3-Pack: $60 per track (save $15 each)
• 5-Pack: $50 per track (save $25 each)

Best For:

• Creators unfamiliar with filing systems
• Those who prefer professional handling
• People who value time over cost savings
• Creators concerned about filing mistakes
• Anyone wanting expert representation

Timeline

We submit within 2-3 business days of receiving your files. Total timeline: 2-3 months from upgrade to registration.

Direct Comparison

Common Questions

"Is filing myself hard?"

Not if you're comfortable with online forms. Our guide includes screenshots and field-by-field instructions. The eCO system is bureaucratic but straightforward.

"Does filing service get approved faster?"

No. The Copyright Office doesn't prioritize professionally-filed applications. Processing time is identical.

"What if I start DIY and get stuck?"

You can upgrade to filing service anytime. Many creators start DIY to save money, then upgrade if needed.

"Can I do both?"

Yes! With multi-track packages, file some yourself and use filing service for others.

"Will DIY filing hurt my chances?"

Absolutely not. The Copyright Office doesn't know or care who submitted. Your documentation quality determines approval, not who filled out the form.

Making Your Decision

Choose DIY If:

• You want to save $60-75 per track
• You're comfortable with online forms and systems
• You have 1-2 hours to dedicate to filing
• You want direct control of the process
• You enjoy learning new systems

Choose Filing Service If:

• You're unfamiliar with filing systems
• You'd rather focus on creating music
• You value time savings over cost savings
• You prefer professional handling
• You want representation with Copyright Office

You Can't Go Wrong

Both paths work. The choice is about your preferences, not your approval chances.

Ready to Decide?

You don't need to choose immediately. Complete your assessment, receive your documentation, and then decide. You can even start with DIY and upgrade later if needed.

Have more questions? Contact our support team for guidance on which option fits your situation.