How to register with The MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective)

The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) is the US non-profit that collects mechanical royalties from digital service providers (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, etc.) and pays them to songwriters. Every songwriter whose works are streamed in the US is owed money by The MLC, whether or not they are PRO-affiliated. Registration takes 15-30 minutes.

Steps

1. Create a Songwriter Member account at themlc.com — Go to themlc.com and click "Become a Member". Choose "Songwriter Member" (free). You will need a government ID, tax form (W-9 for US, W-8 for non-US), and bank account info for ACH/wire payouts.
2. Submit identity verification — Upload your ID and complete the IRS tax form inline. Verification typically takes 1-3 business days.
3. Add your IPI/CAE number — Find your IPI number from your PRO (BMI, ASCAP, SESAC). If you do not have one yet, affiliate with a PRO first — IPI is required to match works to royalties.
4. Register your works (catalog) — Add every song you have written or co-written, with title, ISWC if known, all writers and their shares, and the original release date if released.
5. Claim unmatched royalties — Search The MLC unmatched royalties database for your titles. Submit ownership claims with documentation; claims are typically reviewed within 30 days.
6. Configure payouts — Set ACH (US) or wire (international) details. The MLC pays monthly once accumulated royalties exceed $5.

FAQ

Is The MLC registration free?

Yes. Songwriter membership in The MLC is free. There are no monthly fees, no setup fees, and no commission charged by The MLC itself.

Do I need to be PRO-affiliated to register with The MLC?

No. The MLC is independent of PROs. You can register with The MLC without being affiliated with BMI, ASCAP, or SESAC — but having an IPI number from a PRO makes registration faster.

Can Producer Tour register with The MLC on my behalf?

Yes. Producer Tour's writer program includes MLC registration + ongoing claims management as part of the 20% commission on recovered royalties. If you do not want to manage The MLC portal yourself, you can apply at https://producertour.com/apply.