When you are giving your work to another person or an institution, you must also consider the copyright. The copyright law provides protection to "original works of authorship, including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic and other intellectual works, whether published or unpublished.. The copyright is a separate entity from the work itself and, unless it is clearly transferred, it is generally owned by you, even if you sell or give away the work. The copyright owner has the right to reproduce the work, make similar works, distribute copies of the work and perform the work publicly. For works created after January 1, 1978, the term of the copyright is the life of the artist plus 50 years.

Your will should clearly dispose of your copyrights. Consider whether you want the copyright in your work to be bequeathed to the people or institutions to which you give your work, or elsewhere. Not defining who is to own the copyright to your work can cause both tax and legal problems for your heirs.