What is a copyright page and do I need one?

A copyright page is the short page near the front of a book that states who owns it. It is standard practice and takes a minute to add.

What to include

• The copyright symbol, the year, and your name or pen name: "Copyright YEAR by NAME."
• "All rights reserved" (optional but common).
• Your ISBN (optional on the page; Chiify can supply a free ISBN — see getting an ISBN).
• An optional disclaimer for fiction ("This is a work of fiction…").

Do you need one?

It is not legally required — your copyright exists the moment you create the work — but a copyright page:

• Looks professional to readers and reviewers.
• Helps stores and libraries catalogue the book.
• Clearly asserts your ownership, which supports you in any dispute. See proving your rights.

Add it as the second page (after the title page) — see recommended page order.

Still need help? Open a ticket from your dashboard or email [email protected] — a real person replies.