In the United States, copyright protection automatically exists from the moment a work is created. You don’t need to register your work for copyright. However, registering your work with the United States Copyright Office grants certain additional benefits.

In the US, copyright is a form of protection for original works of authorship fixed in a tangible medium of expression. Copyright protects literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works.

Learn more about what is and isn’t protected by copyright.

How long does copyright last?

With exception, copyright protection generally exists from the moment of creation and lasts until 70 years after the death of the creator. After that time, the work may enter public domain. Learn more about how long copyrights last.

What do I do if I believe my copyright was infringed?

If you believe that your copyright or intellectual property was infringed by a seller on Etsy, you can file a notice of intellectual property infringement. 

What do I do if I received a notice of intellectual property infringement?

If you received a notice of intellectual property infringement, this means that an intellectual property owner (or an agent authorized by them) notified Etsy that they believe certain seller content on Etsy infringes their intellectual property.

Learn more about what to do if you received a notice of Intellectual Property Infringement.

What if I'm outside of the United States?

This information relates to the law of the United States. However, the United States has copyright relations with many countries throughout the world, and as a result of these agreements, the US honors certain other copyrights.

The information contained on this page constitutes information and not legal advice. The reader assumes all responsibility for any and all use of this information. Please consult an attorney if you have specific questions.