Why Claims Happen
Content ID systems on YouTube, Spotify, and other platforms automatically scan uploaded audio against a database of registered content. A claim can be triggered when:- The producer or a third party has registered the instrumental with a Content ID service
- Another artist released a song using the same beat (common with non-exclusive licenses)
- A distribution service automatically fingerprints and registers content
A Content ID claim is not the same as a copyright strike. Claims are automated matches — they don’t penalize your account. You have the right to dispute them with proof of your license.
How to Resolve a Claim
Identify the claim
Check where the claim appeared:
- YouTube: Go to YouTube Studio → Content → look for a copyright claim icon next to your video
- Spotify/Apple Music: Your distributor will notify you via email if there’s a takedown request
- Other platforms: Check your platform’s content or copyright notifications area
Get your license certificate
Go to your BeatPass Library → My Licenses and find the license for the beat in question. You can also:
- Search by track name in your library
- Download the certificate as a PDF
- Copy the verification URL from the certificate
File a dispute
Use the platform’s dispute process and provide your license information:For YouTube:
- In YouTube Studio, click on the claim
- Select Actions → Dispute
- Choose License as the reason
- Include in your explanation:
- “I have a valid non-exclusive/exclusive license from BeatPass for this beat”
- Your license certificate ID
- The verification URL from your certificate (e.g.,
open.beatpass.ca/verify-license/[your-uuid])
- Reply to the takedown notification from your distributor
- Attach your license certificate PDF
- Include the verification URL so they can confirm your license independently
What Your License Certificate Proves
Your BeatPass license certificate is your proof of rights. It includes:| Field | What It Proves |
|---|---|
| License ID | Unique identifier for your specific license |
| Track information | The exact beat you licensed, with title and producer |
| BeatPassID fingerprint | Acoustic match to the specific audio file |
| License type | Non-exclusive or exclusive, with usage terms |
| Verification URL | A public URL anyone can visit to confirm the license is valid and active |
| Issue date | When the license was granted |
Non-Exclusive vs. Exclusive: Content ID Differences
Non-Exclusive License
- You cannot register Content ID for the beat
- You can dispute claims against your release using your license
- Multiple artists may have claims on the same beat — this is normal
Exclusive License
- You can register Content ID for the beat
- You have full rights to the audio, so claims should not occur
- If they do, dispute with your exclusive license certificate
Preventing Future Claims
Always keep your license certificates
Always keep your license certificates
Download PDFs and store them alongside your project files. You may need them months or years after release.
Add producer credits in your metadata
Add producer credits in your metadata
Proper attribution in your song’s metadata (producer, composer fields) can help platforms recognize the relationship and reduce false claims.
Consider exclusive licenses for major releases
Consider exclusive licenses for major releases
If a song is a lead single or likely to get significant streams, an exclusive license gives you full rights including Content ID registration, eliminating most claim issues.
Communicate with your distributor
Communicate with your distributor
Some distributors have pre-clearance processes. Let them know you’re using a licensed beat and provide the certificate proactively.
Common Questions
Will I lose my YouTube revenue during a dispute?
Will I lose my YouTube revenue during a dispute?
Revenue is typically held (not lost) during the dispute period. Once resolved in your favor, any held revenue is released to you.
What if the dispute is rejected?
What if the dispute is rejected?
If a dispute is rejected, you can appeal. Include your full license certificate PDF and verification URL. If the issue persists, contact BeatPass support at [email protected] for assistance.
Can BeatPass help me with a claim?
Can BeatPass help me with a claim?
Yes. If you’re having difficulty resolving a claim, contact support with your license ID and the claim details. The support team can provide additional documentation or contact the claimant on your behalf if needed.
What if my license shows 'revoked'?
What if my license shows 'revoked'?
A revoked license means your usage rights have been terminated. You should stop distributing the song and contact support for details. See Downloads & Licensing FAQ.