How long does copyright last?

Answer

This is a complex question and depends on a number of factors including whether it was published, and if it was, the date and location of first publication. But there are some general rules:

For works created after January 1, 1978

  • Copyright protection lasts for 70 years past the life of the author.
  • Anonymous works, pseudonymous works, or works for hire have a copyright duration of 95 years from the date of first publication or 120 years from the date of creation, whichever expires first.

For works published before 1978

  • Copyright duration varies depending on several factors including whether the copyright registration was renewed.
  • For help determining the copyright status of these works, see Copyright Term and the Public Domain, an excellent resource from Cornell University Library.

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  • Last Updated Aug 23, 2024
  • Views 119
  • Answered By Jeff Graveline

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