Sign up for a Performing Rights Organization
Just like you need a driver’s license to legally drive a car, you need to sign up with a Performing Rights Organization, also known as a PRO, to be officially recognized as a songwriter or composer.
This makes sure you’re in the system and your music is eligible to earn money when it’s played on the radio, TV, live shows, and more.
Step 1: Go to a Performing Rights Organization website and sign up.
We recommend ASCAP. It’s completely free to sign up.
Here’s the link:
Sign up for the second option, as a “writer.” Make sure to save the 9 digit IPI number they give you, you’ll need this later.
Signing up should only take a few minutes.