*A note regarding CD Baby Pro Publishing

Performance royalties are paid out by your Performing Rights Organization (PRO) based on when you submit your setlist and how that aligns with their distribution schedule. 

Payments typically arrive 6–9 months after your performance. This article outlines expected timelines for major PROs like ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, SOCAN, & PRS and explains factors that affect how much you earn.

When Will I Get Paid?

• Payment timing depends on:
  • When you submit your performance
  • Your PRO’s distribution cycle
• Most artists receive payment 6–9 months after the performance date.
• For PRO-specific timelines, see below.

How Much Will I Get Paid?

• Royalties vary based on the venue’s capacity:
  • Larger venues pay higher license fees.
  • Smaller venues generate lower royalties.
• Accurate song registration and performance submission are essential to ensure payment.

PRO-Specific Payment Timelines

ASCAP

• Paid ~6 months after the calendar quarter of the performance.
• View ASCAP’s distribution schedule here https://www.ascap.com/help/royalties-and-payment/payment/distribution

BMI

• Paid 6–12 months after the performance, depending on submission timing.
• View BMI’s distribution schedule here https://www.bmi.com/faq/entry/how_often_is_this_paid_out

SESAC

• Paid ~3 months after the end of the performance quarter.
• Foreign royalties paid ~6 months after the quarter in which they’re received.

SOCAN

• Paid within ~9 months of submission.
• Foreign royalties are treated the same as domestic once collected.
• Visit SOCAN’s site for more info https://www.socan.com/

PRS

• Main distributions: April, July, October, December
• Payments typically arrive ~6 months after submission.
• Timing may vary by territory and venue.

Things to Note

• CD Baby cannot provide updates on your setlist submission or payment status.
  • Please contact your PRO directly for assistance.
• Make sure your songs are registered correctly and your performance info is accurate.
• For other PROs not listed above, reach out to them directly for payment timelines.

Want to learn how to submit a live performance? Go here.

________________________________________________________________

*The CD Baby Pro Publishing service was discontinued as of August 8th, 2023. Any paid release which was signed up for CD Baby Pro Publishing prior to August 8th, 2023 is considered a legacy Pro release and will continue to receive Pro Publishing services. CD Baby now offers a new expanded suite of revenue amplifiers called “CDB Boost” instead.