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Artispreneur

Publishing Administration Studio

Your central hub for establishing your music publishing operations and managing your rights effectively.

Set Up Your Publishing with a PRO
Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) are essential for collecting royalties when your music is performed publicly.

Checklist for PRO Registration:

  • Understand Performing Rights Organizations (PROs)

    PROs like ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and SoundExchange collect and distribute royalties for public performances of your music (radio, TV, streaming, live venues).

  • Choose the Right PRO for You

    Consider factors like your music genre, where it's played, membership fees (BMI is often free for songwriters, ASCAP has a fee), and the PRO's reputation. You can typically only affiliate with one PRO as a songwriter for traditional performance royalties (ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC). SoundExchange is separate and handles digital performance royalties.

  • Create an Account

    Visit the chosen PRO's website and register as a songwriter and/or publisher. You'll need to provide personal and banking information.

  • Submit Your Works (Song Registrations)

    Register all your original songs with your PRO. This includes titles, co-writer information (including their PRO affiliation and IPI numbers), and publisher details. Accurate registration is crucial for royalty collection.

  • Monitor Your Royalties

    Use your PRO's online portal to track performances and royalty statements. Payments are typically made quarterly.

Major U.S. PROs:

ASCAP

Membership-driven, strong songwriter support.

Visit ASCAP
BMI

Often free for songwriters, popular with independent artists.

Visit BMI
SESAC

Invite-only for songwriters, known for personalized service.

Visit SESAC
SoundExchange

Collects digital performance royalties (e.g., SiriusXM, Pandora). Separate from ASCAP/BMI/SESAC.

Visit SoundExchange
Obtain Your Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An EIN is crucial for operating your music career as a legitimate business.

Checklist for EIN Application:

  • Determine if You Need an EIN

    An Employer IdentificationNumber (EIN) is like a Social Security Number for your business. You'll likely need one if you plan to operate as a business entity (even a sole proprietorship wanting a business bank account), hire employees, or open a business bank account.

  • Visit the Official IRS Website

    The application is free and can be completed online directly with the IRS.

    Apply via IRS.gov

  • Select Your Business Structure

    Choose the structure that fits your situation (e.g., sole proprietor, LLC, partnership, corporation).

  • Provide Business Information

    You'll need to provide details like your business name, address, and the responsible party's information.

  • Submit the Application

    If applying online, you typically receive your EIN immediately upon successful completion. Keep this number safe.

Expand Your Business Foundation

Once your PRO and EIN are set up, consider these next steps to fully protect and manage your music career:

Copyright Your Music

Officially register your songs with the U.S. Copyright Office to protect your ownership of both compositions and sound recordings.

Learn in Academy (Coming Soon)
Trademark Your Brand

Protect your artist name, logo, and slogans by registering them as trademarks.

Learn in Academy (Coming Soon)