Free Resource

Royalty Registration Checklist

The registrations that connect your songs to recording and publishing income.

Royalty Registration Checklist workbook cover

A branded, print-ready PDF workbook from The Masterpiece Artist Blueprint — print it at home and work through it with a pen.

Download Workbook (PDF)

This checklist reflects the general U.S. landscape. Requirements differ by country and change over time; confirm details with each organization.

As a songwriter

  • Affiliated with one PRO as a writer
  • Every released composition registered with your PRO
  • Registered with The MLC (directly or through a publisher/administrator)
  • Publisher share accounted for (publisher, administrator or self-published entity)

As a recording artist and owner

  • Distributor account active and payment details current
  • SoundExchange registration as featured artist
  • SoundExchange registration as rights owner (if you own the masters)

Ongoing

  • Register each new song before or at release
  • Review statements quarterly
  • Search portals for missing or unmatched works
  • Keep your metadata sheet as evidence

Educational information only. Not legal, tax or financial advice.

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