Amazon KDP Copyright & Trademark Guide: How to Protect Your Low-Content Books

Protecting your intellectual property while avoiding accidental trademark infringement is crucial to maintaining a healthy Amazon KDP account. A single trademark complaint from a major brand can result in immediate book cancellation or permanent account termination. Here is the legal breakdown simplified for publishers.

Copyright vs. Trademark: Know the Difference

• **Copyright**: Protects original creative works of authorship (your unique cover illustration, written story, specific book description, and layout arrangement). Copyright is automatic upon creation in most jurisdictions.
• **Trademark**: Protects brand names, logos, slogans, and phrases used in commerce to distinguish goods (e.g., *'Wordle'*, *'Barbie'*, *'Crossfit'*). You cannot use trademarked phrases in your title, subtitle, or backend keywords.

Can You Copyright Low-Content Interiors?

In the United States and most territories, basic geometric shapes, standard lined pages, and common mathematical equations cannot be copyrighted because they lack creative authorship. However, your **cover artwork**, unique compilations, original instructional guides, and custom puzzle themes are fully protected.

How to Conduct a Trademark Search Before Publishing

1. Visit the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) TESS database or global trademark databases. 2. Search your intended book title and main subtitle phrases. 3. Check if the phrase is registered under Class 016 (Paper goods, printed publications, and books). If a phrase is trademarked in Class 016, do NOT use it in your title.

Fast Trademark Checking

Use KDPage's Trademark Checker at kdpage.com/tools/trademark-checker to screen your book titles against active trademark databases before publishing.