The Cost of Trademark Registration in the USA

The process of applying for a trademark in the United States is an important step for businesses and individuals to protect their brand. The cost of trademark registration can vary based on several factors, including the application form you choose and the number of classes of goods or services involved.

Filing Fees and Application Forms

The initial cost to file a trademark registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is dependent on the type of application and the number of classes of goods or services. There are two main application forms available:

TEAS Plus: Fees: $250 per class of goods or services TEAS Standard: Fees: $350 per class of goods or services

Each application must specify the classes of goods or services in which the trademark is used. Therefore, the more classes you include in your application, the higher the cost will be. For example, if you are filing a TEAS Standard initial application for two classes of goods, the total cost would be $700 ($350 per class).

Maintenance Fees and Costs

Once your trademark is registered, maintaining it is essential to prevent it from lapsing. These costs include filing declarations of use and excusable non-use every ten years, as well as submitting renewal applications periodically.

Fee for declaration of use and/or excusable non-use: $525 per class of goods or services Fee for renewal application: $525 per class of goods or services

In a scenario where you have two classes of goods, you would pay a total of $1050 ($525 per class) for these maintenance fees.

Online and DIY Trademark Services

There are also cheaper or free alternatives available for those who prefer to conduct their own trademark search or use online trademark registration services. These options typically charge lower fees than working with a trademark attorney. It is important to carefully evaluate the costs and services provided by such platforms.

Legal Advice

It is crucial to understand that this information is not legal advice. For specific guidance and support during the trademark registration process, you can reach out to a licensed trademark agent like Nominus. Nominus is a trademark agent that supports businesses and entrepreneurs in making informed decisions and registering their brand trademarks.

Conclusion

The cost of trademark registration and maintenance in the USA can vary significantly. By understanding the different application forms, fees, and maintenance costs, you can better manage the financial aspect of your trademark protection. For detailed fee information, you can visit the Trademark Fee Information and Fee Schedule.