The following information is regarding TuneCore's Publishing Administration service
What is a CAE / IPI number?
CAE / IPI numbers are the same. An IPI/CAE number is an international identification number assigned to songwriters and publishers to uniquely identify rights holders. The CAE system was replaced by the IPI system in 2001. These are typically 9-11-digit numbers and are assigned when a songwriter affiliates with a PRO. IPI/CAEs are often confused with PRO account numbers so it is important to double check that you are providing the correct number.
- IPI stands for: Interested Parties Information
- CAE stands for: Composer, Author and Publisher
It is imperative that your IPI/CAE number is submitted to TuneCore Publishing administration in order to accurately register your songs. Essentially, the IPI/CAE connects you to the songs you have written ensuring payments are made. You can obtain your IPI/CAE number from your PRO by either logging into your PRO account, contacting your PRO or by performing a search in the public repertory on both ASCAP and BMI. Search your name and the IPI/CAE will appear next to it.
A CAE/IPI number will be generated for you approximately 1 week after you affiliate with your PRO as a writer. You may then learn what CAE/IPI number has been assigned to you by doing a repertoire search by your registered songwriter/composer name at your PRO. The number will appear next to your name.
How do I edit or update my account with my CAE/IPI number?
Once you finish the affiliation process, ASCAP or BMI will assign you your CAE/IPI number, which identifies you as a songwriter worldwide with the global rights societies. When you have your CAE/IPI number, please update your account so that your works can be properly registered.
To add or change your CAE/IPI number in your account:
- Log in to your TuneCore account
- Click on Publishing Administration in the menubar at the top
- Then select Publishing Dashboard from the dropdown menu
- On the bottom of the Publishing Dashboard, select the blue "Edit Info" link
- Enter or update your unique CAE/IPI number in the space provided in that section and click "Save"
This will update your account and we can make sure any registrations we submit for you include this identifying number.
Please note: if you are already affiliated with a PRO other than BMI, DO NOT affiliate with BMI as your application will be denied. You are only able to be affiliated with one PRO performing society as a songwriter.