Protecting your brand’s name is a smart and strategic move that can safeguard your business’s identity and future. If you’re here to learn about the costs of trademarking a name, you’re in the right place. This guide will help you understand not only the financial aspects but also why trademarking is essential for brand success.
Why Trademark a Name?
Trademarking a name provides legal protection and exclusive rights to use that name in connection with specific goods or services. Here are the key benefits:
- Legal Protection: Prevents others from using your name in ways that could confuse customers or damage your reputation.
- Brand Recognition: Strengthens your brand’s presence and helps consumers identify your products or services.
- Business Asset: A registered trademark can be licensed, franchised, or used as collateral, increasing your company’s value.
- Competitive Advantage: Secures your brand identity and reduces the risk of others capitalizing on your success.
How Much Does It Cost to Trademark a Name?
USPTO Filing Fees
The base application fee to register a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is $350 per class of goods or services. For example:
- A single class of shirts (golf, t-shirts, dress shirts): $350
- Shirts plus custom printing services (two classes): $700
Your final cost depends on how many classes you include in your application.
Filing Basis
- Use-in-Commerce: For trademarks already being used in U.S. commerce.
- Intent-to-Use: For marks not yet used commercially but planned for future use. This requires additional steps and fees, such as an Allegation of Use filing.
Additional Fees
Depending on your application’s accuracy and completeness, you may need to pay extra fees during the review process. These can arise due to:
- Incomplete applications
- Required responses to USPTO Office Actions
- Requesting extensions of time for Intent-to-Use filings (e.g., $125 per extension, up to five times)
Maintaining Your Trademark
Registering your trademark is just the beginning. To keep it active, you must file maintenance documents at specific intervals:
- Every 5–6 Years: File a Declaration of Use (Section 8)
- Every 10 Years: File a Declaration of Use and a Renewal Application (Sections 8 & 9)
Cost per class every 10 years:
- $325 (Declaration of Use) + $325 (Renewal) = $650 per class
For two classes, the total renewal cost would be $1,300.
Legal Representation and Attorney Costs
While hiring a trademark attorney isn’t mandatory, it significantly improves your chances of success. In fact, applications submitted with attorney assistance are over 50% more likely to be approved.
- Flat fees typically range from $500 to $2,000 depending on complexity.
- Attorneys help with:
- Application preparation and filing
- Trademark search and clearance
- Responding to Office Actions or oppositions
We offer clear, flat-rate pricing so you know what to expect—no hidden fees.
Responding to Office Actions or Oppositions
Trademark applications sometimes face objections. In such cases, additional costs may arise:
- Attorney fees: $500–$2,000+
- USPTO filing fees: $100–$500+
- Other costs: May include expert opinions, investigations, or legal representation in disputes
Enforcing Your Trademark Rights
Should someone infringe on your trademark, enforcing your rights could involve:
- Litigation costs
- Attorney fees
- Court filing fees
- Travel or expert witness expenses
Successful enforcement may result in recovery of damages and legal fees, but it’s essential to plan ahead and budget for potential enforcement.
Ready to Trademark Your Name?
Protecting your brand starts with securing your name. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help you register your trademark and ensure your brand’s future is secure. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding into new markets, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
