Understanding how to register for royalties is essential if you’re a creator, DJ, producer, or label. Knowing the process ensures your music can generate income whenever it’s broadcast, streamed or performed. This guide breaks down how and when to join the Performing Right Society (PRS) & Mechanical-Copyright Protection Society (MCPS) — both part of PRS for Music.

What is PRS for Music?

PRS for Music is a UK-based collective rights organisation representing music creators and publishers globally. They issue licences to businesses and users (radio stations, venues, streaming services), collect fees and distribute the money to members.

When should you join PRS for Music?

You should consider joining if your music meets one or more of the following:

1. It’s played on radio, in venues, bars or clubs.
2. It’s streamed or downloaded online.
3. It’s used in TV, film or by DJs/bands at festivals.

If you produce tracks or compositions that may be publicly used, joining early helps you claim what you’re owed.

How much does PRS for Music cost and what are the benefits?

Joining carries a one-time membership fee: £100 (including VAT) for PRS and another £100 for MCPS for lifetime membership.

Long-term benefits:

1. You become eligible to receive royalties whenever your work is used.
2. You gain voting rights, meaning a say in how PRS is governed.
3. Access to funding and support initiatives like the PRS Members’ Fund for members requiring assistance.

What’s the difference between PRS and MCPS?

PRS deals with performance royalties. These are paid when music is publicly performed or broadcast in clubs, venues radio or TV.

MCPS manages mechanical royalties. They’re paid when music is reproduced or copied via physical formats, downloads on streaming services.

Here’s a breakdown of how typical uses split between the two organisations:

1. Permanent downloads: 75% MCPS / 25% PRS.
2. On-demand streaming: 50% MCPS / 50% PRS.
3. Webcasting services: 25% MCPS / 75% PRS.

How to join PRS for Music: A step-by-step

1. Visit the PRS for Music website and select whether you’re joining as a writer/composer, publisher or both.
2. Complete the online registration: you’ll need ID (passport, driving licence, birth certificate) and to pay the fee.
3. After approval, you’ll receive a CAE/ IPI number (your unique membership identifier).
4. Use your member portal: register your works, submit live set-lists (if applicable), track royalties and access statements.
5. Monitor your earnings: once your music is used and detected, royalties start to flow.

Key takeaways for creators

Ensure you understand your rights split: Are you signed to a publisher? Did you assign rights? These affect what you claim.

Don’t leave your work unregistered. If you haven’t joined, you may forfeit claims for past or future uses.

Keep your data updated: registrations, credits, set-lists — they matter when payments are calculated.

Explore funding opportunities offered by PRS Foundation or Members’ Fund if you qualify.