A copyright symbol informs others that copyright exists in your work. It also indicates that those who use (or want to use) your intellectual property should obtain permission from you. This article provides: A greater understanding of the purpose of the copyright symbol.

Is it smart to use the copyright symbol?

Using the copyright symbol is optional, but it is your right as the creator of the work to identify the creative work as yours. You can register your work with the U.S. Copyright Office for additional protection, but registering is optional.

When should I use the copyright symbol?

The Copyright Act does not require that any symbols be used to indicate that works are subject to copyright. However, if you are going to distribute your work to the public, you should use the copyright symbol to let others know that the work is protected.