Are you looking to protect your brand name but unsure about the costs involved? You’re in the right place! Registering a trademark is a crucial step to securing your brand identity, whether you’re starting a business or already have an established one.
In California, the cost of trademarking a name depends on several factors, including government fees and attorney costs. Let’s break it down for you.
Trademark Filing Fee
Since trademark registration is a government-regulated process, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) determines the filing fees. Here’s what you need to know:
Basic Filing Fee
- The standard USPTO filing fee for a trademark application is $350 per class of goods or services.
- The application is filed through the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS).
- Each class of goods or services requires a separate fee.
Additional Fees in Specific Situations
Beyond the basic filing fee, you may incur additional fees in certain cases:
- Office Action Response: If the USPTO issues an office action requesting more information, there may be additional costs.
- Statement of Use Extension: If you need more time to prove trademark use, you may have to pay extra fees.
- Declaration of Continued Use: After your trademark is registered, periodic maintenance fees are required.
Cost of Hiring a Trademark Attorney
Hiring a trademark attorney can increase your chances of a successful registration while saving time. Here are the typical costs:
Trademark Search Fees
- Basic search: $400 (includes an attorney review and a summary memo)
- Comprehensive search: $1,250 (includes a full report from a professional search company)
Trademark Application Fees
- Flat fee: $950 (includes filing the application and handling basic USPTO inquiries)
Why Work with a Trademark Attorney?
- Higher approval rates: An attorney ensures your application meets all requirements.
- Avoids costly mistakes: Proper research minimizes the risk of rejection.
- Saves time: Attorneys handle the paperwork, so you can focus on your business.
Is Trademark Registration More Expensive in California?
No, trademark registration costs the same across the U.S. because the USPTO sets national fees. However, additional business demand in California might lead to higher attorney fees or longer processing times.
What Happens If You Don’t Trademark Your Business Name?
Failing to trademark your business name can lead to serious consequences:
- Loss of brand protection: Competitors can use a similar name.
- Legal disputes: Without a trademark, you may face costly legal battles.
- Limited business expansion: Many markets, including international ones, require trademark registration.
Cost of Trademarking Packaging and Design in California
If you want to trademark packaging and design, the fees are similar to name registration:
- USPTO Filing Fee: $350 per class of goods or services.
- Attorney Fees: Varies based on case complexity.
- Additional Costs: May include legal reviews, multiple applications, or protection for distinct elements like logos and colors.
Get Started with Trademark Registration
Are you ready to secure your brand’s identity? Contact us today to learn more about how much it costs to trademark a name in California and start the process with confidence!
