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What Happens to Your ASCAP Account When You Die

Royalties continue for decades

Quick Facts

Royalties

Continue for decades after death

Estate

Update payee to estate

Works

Registered compositions

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Performance royalties continue for decades

ASCAP performance royalties continue as long as the music is being played publicly. These can last for decades after the creator's death.

2

Update payee to estate or heir

Contact ASCAP Member Services to update the payee to the estate or designated heir. A death certificate and estate documents will be required.

Document Now Checklist

  • ASCAP member ID
  • Registered works/compositions
  • Current quarterly royalty estimate
  • Account email

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Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with ASCAP. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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