If you’ve ever uploaded a YouTube video using a “royalty-free” track from Pixabay only to get hit with a Copyright Claim, don’t panic. You haven’t done anything wrong, and you definitely don’t need to delete your video.
Here is the quick guide to getting that claim removed and keeping your monetization intact.
Why Did I Get a Claim?
Even though Pixabay music is free to use, many artists protect their work through Content ID systems (like Identifyy or HAAWK). When you upload your video, YouTube’s bots recognize the melody and automatically apply a claim to ensure the artist is credited—or to prevent unauthorized commercial use.
The Solution: The License Certificate
The secret weapon is the Pixabay License Certificate. YouTube needs proof that you have the right to use the audio.
- Go to Pixabay: Log in and go to your Download History.
- Download the Certificate: Find the song you used and click the “Certificate” button (usually a small PDF or text icon).
- Copy the ID: Inside that document, you’ll find a unique License Key or URL.
Step-by-Step: Disputing the Claim
Once you have your certificate, follow these steps in your YouTube Studio:
- Step 1: Go to the Content tab and find the video with the claim.
- Step 2: Hover over “Copyright” in the Restrictions column and click See Details.
- Step 3: Click the three dots (Actions) next to the disputed song and select Dispute.
- Step 4: Check the box that says “I have a license or written permission,” then click Continue.
- Step 5: In the rationale box, paste your Pixabay License Certificate info and a short message like:”I have a valid license to use this music via Pixabay. License Certificate attached/ID: [Insert ID Here].”
- Step 6: Submit.
What Happens Next?
The claimant usually has 30 days to review your dispute. In 99% of cases involving Pixabay, the claim is released within a few days once they see the valid license.
Pro Tip: To avoid this in the future, some creators paste their Pixabay license ID directly into the YouTube video description upon upload. This can sometimes prevent the automated bots from flagging the video in the first place!
Note: A copyright claim is not a copyright strike. Your channel is safe; a claim just means the ad revenue might temporarily go to the artist until you resolve the dispute.
