How to prove you created a file first
Use a timestamped file to support authorship, show when your work existed, and strengthen copyright claims.
What a timestamp can help you prove
A timestamped file shows that your exact work already existed at a recorded time. This is useful for design files, manuscripts, photos, code, proposals, music, and signed drafts.
It helps prove that your file was not created after a dispute started. In other words: you had it first.
What else you should keep alongside it
A timestamp is strongest when it’s part of a broader package. Keep the source file, the certificate, earlier versions, project notes, invoices, emails, or anything that connects the work back to you.
The more context you have, the harder it is for someone to challenge your claim.
- The original working file or export.
- The timestamp certificate and verification link.
- Any context that links the work back to you or your organization.
What a timestamp does not replace
A proof of existence is not the same as a formal copyright registration, notarization, or an official e-signature. Those tools serve different legal purposes.
Use a timestamp when you want early, independent evidence that your file existed at a certain time and hasn’t been changed since.
Create a proof from your own file.
Your file stays on your device. Only its unique fingerprint is saved to the record. You get a certificate you can keep and verify at any time.
Continue reading
What is proof of existence for a file?
Proof of existence shows that a specific file already existed at a certain time, without revealing its contents to anyone.
READ GUIDEHow to timestamp a document without uploading it
The simplest way: let your browser create a fingerprint of the file, save only the fingerprint to the record, and keep the original with the certificate.
READ GUIDETimestamp vs e-signature vs notarization: what’s the difference?
These tools are often confused, but each answers a different question: when did this exist? who agreed? was it witnessed?
READ GUIDE