10 Steps to Setting Up Your Publishing Company with ASCAP

With the suspension of the ASCAP application fee starting February 13, 2023, it’s the perfect time to launch your career in music by setting up your own publishing company.

This creates an opportunity for every dedicated music creator to step forward and claim their due share. Harnessing these opportunities is key to thriving in our dynamic industry.

Follow these 10 steps to join ASCAP as a writer and publisher and start earning royalties for your work:

The Mechanical Licensing Committee (MLC) has observed an impressive increase in royalties. Digital services paid roughly $675 million in 2021 and about $740 million in 2022, bringing the total to a staggering $1.415 billion, as estimated by Billboard. Interestingly, about 16% of these royalties, which equates to just over $225 million, remain unclaimed or unmatched.

Follow these 10 steps to join ASCAP as a writer and publisher and start earning royalties for your work:

  1. Choose Your Member Type

    Visit ASCAP's website and select "Writer & Publisher" if you're a music creator not affiliated with a label or other entity. This allows you to handle both the creative and administrative aspects of your music.

  2. Writer General

    Provide your general information as a writer, including legal name, mailing address, and valid email address.

  3. Writer Royalties

    Make sure your SSN/ITIN is on hand as you will need it to complete the application. You must be at least 18 years old to apply online.

  4. Writer Required Documents

    Gather any required documents, such as proof of identity, to provide during the application process.

  5. Publisher General

    Provide general information about your publishing company, including its legal name, mailing address, and valid email address.

  6. Publisher Royalties

    Submit financial information such as SSN/ITIN for royalty purposes.

  7. Publisher Required Documents

    Upload any necessary documents, such as proof of business registration, during the application process.

  8. Publisher Account Creation

    Set up your publishing company account with a username and password.

  9. Submit Application

    By joining ASCAP, you'll benefit from their expertise in managing your catalog, searching for streaming royalties, assisting with licensing, and monitoring radio, television, web, and mobile uses of your music. This can help you claim any uncollected royalties and boost your music career.

  10. Celebrate

    Revel in your achievement! You've managed to leverage a unique opportunity that has remained elusive to millions of musicians over the past century.

Allow yourself about 1.5 hours to go through the process, take breaks, and if you need help with research or have questions feel free to contact us at RAOM Studio.

The future of audio, with all its potential and promise, eagerly awaits those ready to tap into its resonance.

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