Guide · The business of songwriting
BMI vs ASCAP
BMI and ASCAP are both US performing rights organisations (PROs) that collect royalties when music is publicly performed. As a writer you can belong to only one at a time, according to ASCAP. For most writers the differences are in the agreement terms and the service, so read both writer agreements before you choose. This is general information, not legal advice.
Updated 20 Oct 2026
What each says about itself
| ASCAP | BMI | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A performing rights organisation of more than 1.1 million songwriters, composers and music publishers (its own figure) | Says it has more than 1.5 million songwriters and composers (its own figure) |
| What it does | Pays performance royalties when your music is played publicly by businesses | Ensures songwriters get paid when their music is publicly played |
| Cost to join as a writer | Its page says free for writers; $50 non-refundable for publishers | Its join page does not state a fee. Check before you apply |
| How to join | Online application with identity verification; writers must apply themselves | Online application; asks for a valid email address and links its standard writer agreement |
| Under 18 | Minor application form | Custodial trust bank account at a US bank is required |
Figures are each organisation's own claims. Sources: ome.ascap.com and bmi.com/join, checked 20 Oct 2026. Terms change, so check the current pages.
One at a time
ASCAP says that as a writer you can belong to only one US PRO at a time, and that you can switch but will need a release form from your current PRO. (ome.ascap.com, checked 20 Oct 2026.) So choose, rather than joining both.
What to compare
- The writer agreement. Read the length, how to leave, and what it covers. BMI links its standard writer agreement from its join page.
- Cost. ASCAP's page says free for writers. BMI's join page does not state a fee. Check both pages before you apply.
- Support and tools. How easy it is to register songs and see your statements.
- Your own situation. A publisher, a manager or a co-writer may have a view. Ask them before you join.
Not sure? Ask
For anything important, such as a publishing deal or a contract, ask a music lawyer. See also how to register a song.
Keep your song details in one place
Whichever you join, you will register each song with its writers and shares. In songdrafts every take of a song stacks on one card, with the lyrics and notes on the same song. For splits, see the free split sheet template.
Common questions
Is BMI or ASCAP better?
Neither is better for everyone. Compare the current writer agreements and the service, and ask a music lawyer if it matters.
Can I be with BMI and ASCAP at the same time?
ASCAP says that as a writer you can belong to only one US PRO at a time.
Is ASCAP free to join?
ASCAP's join page says joining is free for writers.
Can I switch from BMI to ASCAP?
ASCAP says you can switch to ASCAP from another US PRO, but you need a release form from your current PRO first.
Is this legal advice?
No. It is general information from the organisations' own pages. Ask a music lawyer for advice.
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