Guide
Publishing Administration for Independent Songwriters
What a publishing admin actually does, what they charge, what to look for, and the questions to ask before you sign.
A traditional publisher takes ownership. An administrator does not. That is the whole difference that matters.
The job is registration, collection, statements, and (sometimes) sync. Commission should only come out of money actually collected. Ask whether there is an upfront fee, whether the grant is exclusive, how you cancel, and what happens to registrations after you leave.
Found Royalties: no upfront fee, 15/20, non-exclusive per song, 30 days' notice, you keep 100% of the copyright.