How Much Does It Cost To Register With BMI?

Introduction

Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI) is one of the largest music rights organizations in the United States. They represent over 900,000 songwriters, composers, and publishers, and collect royalties on their behalf whenever their music is used on radio, television, or other public performances. In order to ensure that all of these royalties are collected properly, BMI requires that all writers, composers, and publishers register with them. But how much does it cost to register with BMI?

Analyzing the Cost of Registering with BMI

Before we can answer the question of how much it costs to register with BMI, we need to understand what is included in the registration process. BMI has three different types of registration: Writer Registration, Publisher Registration, and Affiliate Registration. Each type of registration involves a different set of steps and fees.

Breaking Down the Fees for Joining BMI

Writer Registration is the most common type of BMI registration. This type of registration is designed for songwriters, composers, and lyricists who wish to register their works with BMI. The fee for this type of registration is $50, which covers the processing and administration of the application. If you are registering as an individual, the fee is waived. If you are registering as a business or partnership, the fee is still required.

Publisher registration is for companies that publish music, such as record labels and publishing companies. The fee for publisher registration is $150 per title. This fee covers the processing and administration of the application as well as any additional materials that may be needed to complete the registration process.

Affiliate registration is for companies that distribute music, such as online stores and streaming services. The fee for affiliate registration is $500 per title. This fee covers the processing and administration of the application as well as any additional materials that may be needed to complete the registration process.

What You Need to Know About BMI Registration Costs

When registering with BMI, there are several factors that may affect the cost of registration. For example, if a songwriter or composer wishes to register multiple titles, they will need to pay a separate fee for each title. Additionally, the cost of registration may vary depending on the type of registration. For example, registering as an individual writer may be cheaper than registering as a business or partnership.

The Price Tag of Registering with BMI

Once you have decided to register with BMI, it’s time to take a look at the different fees associated with the registration process. As previously mentioned, the fee for writer registration is $50 per title. The fee for publisher registration is $150 per title, and the fee for affiliate registration is $500 per title. Additionally, BMI may charge extra fees for certain services, such as collection services, or for additional materials that may be needed to complete the registration process.

How Much Does It Cost to Sign Up with BMI?

The cost of registering with BMI depends on the type of registration and the number of titles being registered. Generally speaking, the cost of registering as a writer is $50 per title, the cost of registering as a publisher is $150 per title, and the cost of registering as an affiliate is $500 per title. Additionally, BMI may charge extra fees for certain services or for additional materials that may be needed to complete the registration process.

Other Associated Costs

In addition to the fees associated with registration, there may be other costs associated with registering with BMI. For example, BMI may require that you purchase a special membership package in order to access certain features or services. Additionally, some BMI members may be required to pay royalties or other fees in order to use certain songs or compositions.

Conclusion

Registering with BMI is an important part of protecting your rights as a songwriter, composer, or publisher. However, it is important to understand the cost of registering with BMI before taking the plunge. Generally speaking, the cost of registering as a writer is $50 per title, the cost of registering as a publisher is $150 per title, and the cost of registering as an affiliate is $500 per title. Additionally, BMI may charge extra fees for certain services or for additional materials that may be needed to complete the registration process. By understanding the cost of registering with BMI, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it is worth it for you.