Government Shutdown & Copyright: What Authors Should Know

If you’re an author, you may have heard that the government shutdown has affected the U.S. Copyright Office. That can sound intimidating, especially if you’re just learning how to protect your work. Don’t worry—your rights as an author are still safe. Here’s what’s happening and what you should do next.

3 Things to Know About Copyright During the Shutdown

1. Your book is already protected.

Copyright begins the moment you write your work. The shutdown doesn’t take away those rights.

2. You can still file online.

The Copyright Office staff are on hold, but the online filing system (called eCO) is still open. If you register your book online now, your filing date is saved—even if it takes longer to get your certificate.

3. Expect delays.

Because the office is closed, no one is reviewing or processing applications right now. Paper applications will sit until the office reopens, and online filings won’t move forward until staff return.

What new authors should do now:

• File online through the Copyright Office eCO system.

• Save your receipt as proof of submission.

• Be patient. Certificates will take longer, but your registration date is protected.

The Bottom Line

The government shutdown may slow things down, but it doesn’t erase your rights. If you’ve finished your book and are ready to protect it, file online now. You’ll secure your spot in line—and your work will be safeguarded when the Copyright Office reopens.