IPI vs CAE Number in Music: Complete Guide for Artists, Producers & Labels

 

IPI vs CAE Number in Music: Complete Guide for Artists Producers & Labels

What Is an IPI Number?

An IPI (Interested Party Information) number is a unique international ID assigned to:

• Songwriters

• Composers

• Lyricists

• Music publishers

It is used worldwide to track who created a song and where royalties should be paid.

IPI = Your global identity as a music creator.

You get your IPI number when you join a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) such as:

• ASCAP

• BMI

• PRS for Music

• IPRS (India)

• SOCAN (Canada)

• GEMA (Germany)

• SACEM (France)

• 
  

What Is a CAE Number?

A CAE number is the older version of the IPI number. Before the new IPI system was introduced, all PROs used CAE numbers.

Today:

👉 CAE = old name👉 IPI = new name

They represent the same identity but with different formats.

Difference Between IPI and CAE

Here is the simple comparison:

Feature	CAE	IPI
System Age	Old (before 2001)	Modern (current)
Digits	9 digits	11 digits
Usage	Rare now	Used globally
Purpose	Identify creators	Identify creators

Bottom line:

CAE and IPI refer to the same creator ID — only the system changed.

Why IPI/CAE Numbers Matter

Your IPI/CAE number ensures:

• Your publishing royalties reach you

• PROs can match your name with your songs

• You get paid for radio, TV, streaming, live shows, and covers

• Global royalty agencies recognize your work

Without an IPI, your songs can be registered —BUT the royalties may not reach you.

How IPI/CAE Numbers Are Used Worldwide

Whenever you register a song, your IPI/CAE number is combined with:

• ISWC → identifies the song

• ISRC → identifies the recording

• UPC → identifies the release

These codes work together to ensure your music is fully tracked.

Where to Find Your IPI/CAE Number

You can find it in your PRO dashboard:

Go to: Profile → Membership Info → IPI/CAE Number

Most PROs also offer a public writer search, where you can find your number by name.

Do You Need Both an IPI & CAE?

No.

You only need your current IPI number.

If your account is older, you may see a CAE number — which is simply your older identity. Both are valid and linked.

Do Spotify or Apple Music Require IPI/CAE?

No.

Streaming platforms do not need your IPI/CAE number for uploads.

But your PRO does, in order to:

• Register the song

• Link you to your royalties

• Track your ownership and splits

• 
  

FAQs (IPI vs CAE Number in Music: Complete Guide for Artists Producers & Labels)

📌 1. Is IPI the same as CAE?

Yes — CAE is the old name; IPI is the new global standard.

📌 2. How many IPI/CAE numbers do I have?

You have:

• One Writer IPI (lifetime)

• Optional Publisher IPI if you operate a label

• 
  

📌 3. Are IPI numbers free?

Yes. You receive one when you join a PRO.

📌 4. Can two people have the same IPI number?

No. Each number is globally unique.

📌 5. What happens if I enter the wrong IPI when registering a song?

Your royalties might get lost or sent to the wrong person.

📌 6. Does IPI expire?

No. It stays with you forever.