How long is copyright protection?

Asked on 1/22/2009 by Diana Prince - TDM Group
Answered by ABC Staff

The term of copyright for a particular work depends on several factors, including whether it has been published, and, if so, the date of first publication. As a general rule, copyright protection is the life of the author plus 70 years (for works originally created on or after January 1,1978). 

In the case of works made for hire, protection runs 95 years from publication or 120 years from creation, whichever is shorter. 

Government registration is not required to obtain copyright protection, but doing so gives you advantages that are not otherwise available. For example, registration is required in order to sue violators.

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