Expedited copyright registration costs $800 extra
The Copyright Office calls fast service special handling. It costs $800 per claim, on top of the normal $45 or $65 filing fee. Each extra claim that uses the same deposit is $50. Fast recording of a document costs $550.
Special handling fees
| Special handling fee for a claim | $800 |
|---|---|
| Each non-special claim using the same deposit | $50 |
| Special handling for recording a document | $550 |
| Special handling for records retrieval, search and certification, per hour (1 hour minimum) | $500 |
| Single Application plus special handling | $845 |
|---|---|
| Standard Application plus special handling | $865 |
The $800 is added to the filing fee. It does not replace it. In March 2026 the Copyright Office proposed raising its fees. That is only a proposal. The fees on this page are the ones in effect today. Sources: US Copyright Office, Fees.
What this price covers
A US work must usually be registered before an infringement lawsuit can be filed. That is the main reason people pay for special handling.
What changes your price
- Your filing fee. $45 or $65 plus $800.
- What you need fast. Registration is $800 extra, recording a document $550.
Ways to pay less
- File early so you never need the $800 fee.
- Special handling is often used when a lawsuit is close. Plan ahead if you might sue.
How we got these numbers
Every fee on this page comes from the US Copyright Office, the agency that sets it. Where we show a total, we only add up the agency's own listed fees so you can see the full amount in one place. We do not add our own guesses, and lawyer or filing service fees are not included. Fees can change, so check the agency's website before you pay. We last checked on September 26, 2026.
Common questions
How much is expedited copyright registration?
$800 on top of the filing fee.
What is the total for a Standard Application with special handling?
$865.