Managing Claims from Stock Libraries

If you use a subscription-based music service, either through a major label or a smaller provider, you may still receive a Content ID claim, and this generally happens because the system doesn’t yet know that your channel has a valid license.

Why Does This Happen?

Most stock libraries register their music with Audible Magic and Content ID to prevent unauthorized use. Claims can be triggered if:

  • You haven’t added your YouTube Channel ID to your library’s Safelisted Channels or Clearlist settings.
  • Many libraries use administrators like FUGA or AdRev to manage their rights. The claim may list these names instead of the library itself.
  • You published a video after your subscription ended, though most libraries will cover videos published while it was active.

How to Prevent

The most effective way to avoid claims is to link your channel directly to your music provider.

  • Epidemic Sound: Add your YouTube channel URL in your Account Settings.
  • Artlist: Use the Clearlist feature to register your channel
  • Storyblocks: Enter your YouTube Channel ID in your dashboard.

How to Clear Claims

Remember that claims are administrative flags and not copyright strikes.

  • If you use Artlist or Envato, they offer a tool for clearing claims through their website instead of YouTube. You will need to paste your video URL into their internal tool to release the claim. This usually executes within minutes.
  • You can still dispute through YouTube’s standard dispute system if the provider requires a code to monetize your video. In the reason, select License and paste your license certificate number or subscription email in the box.
  • Some libraries such as PremiumBeat require a monetization code in your video description to auto-clear.

What to Write in a Dispute

When disputing a claim from a stock library, use this template:

“I have a valid royalty-free license for this track from [Library Name]. My license/order number is [Number]. Please release this claim.”

Creator Tips

  • Upload your video as Unlisted first. Wait one to two hours for the checks to complete. If a claim appears, clear it before you set your video to public to ensure you don’t lost any initial ad revenue.
  • Always download the PDF license certificate for every song you use. If a library ever goes out of business or a composer leaves the platform, that PDF is your permanent proof of usage rights.