What is a split sheet?
A split sheet is a short agreement, signed by everyone who wrote a song, that says what percentage of the song each writer owns.
Why it matters
Every time a song earns royalties, from streams, radio, TV placements or live performances, the money is divided according to ownership. Performing rights organizations, publishers and The MLC (the Mechanical Licensing Collective) all need those percentages. The split sheet is the record everyone registers from.
When to fill one out
At the end of the writing session, before anyone leaves. Memories fade and relationships change, and splits are much harder to agree on after a song starts earning.
What happens without one
Registrations don't match, payments get held up, and disagreements are hard to resolve because there's no signed record. A few minutes of paperwork in the room prevents almost all of that.
What it doesn't cover
A split sheet covers the composition, meaning the melody and lyrics. Ownership of the master recording is a separate agreement.
Add every writer, set the percentages, and download a signable PDF. No account needed.
Open the split sheet generator
Common questions
Who needs to sign a split sheet?
Every writer who contributed to the song, including producers who contributed to the writing.
Is a split sheet a contract?
It's a signed agreement between writers and is widely used as evidence of ownership, but it isn't legal advice. Have an entertainment attorney review big deals.
Can a split sheet be changed later?
Yes, if every writer agrees and signs an updated version.