Why Trademark a TV Show Name?
Trademarking a TV show name is essential in the entertainment industry. It gives you exclusive rights to your show’s identity, ensuring that no one else can use a confusingly similar name. Think about Breaking Bad or Friends — their trademarks protect the name, keep the brand strong, and allow the creators to maintain control over merchandising, spin-offs, and licensing.
It’s not only about protection; it also strengthens your marketing power. Shows like The Simpsons built entire product lines and revenue streams because their names were trademarked.
How to Trademark a TV Show Name in the USA
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Decide How to File – You can apply directly through the USPTO online system, use a filing service, or hire an attorney.
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Prepare Application Information – Include owner details, a clear show name/logo, description of services (like TV broadcasting, streaming, merchandising), and a specimen of use if available.
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Search Before Filing – Check the USPTO’s database to ensure no similar marks already exist.
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File the Application – Submit your application electronically, paying the required fee and choosing the correct class of services.
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Use “TM” or “SM” – While your application is pending, you can use “TM” (goods) or “SM” (services). Once approved, you’ll use the ® symbol.
Example: If you’re producing a new series called Dream Catchers, filing early helps you secure exclusive rights before launch.
Cost to Trademark a TV Show Name (2025 USA Fees)
In 2025, USPTO simplified its fee structure. The costs now look like this:
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Base filing fee: $350 per class
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Insufficient information surcharge: +$100 per class
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Free-form description surcharge: +$200 per class
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Excess description (over 1,000 characters): +$200 per block of 1,000 characters
So if your filing is clean and simple (one class, standard description), the cost will be $350. If you need custom descriptions or make errors, the total can rise to $450–$550 or more.
Renewal and Maintenance Costs
Trademarks are valid as long as you keep them active with timely renewals. For TV show names in the USA:
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Declaration of Use (Section 8): $325 per class
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Renewal (Section 9, every 10 years): $325 per class
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Incontestability (Section 15, optional): $250 per class
Failing to renew will cancel your registration, so always track deadlines carefully.
Trademark vs. Copyright for Show Names
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Copyright protects creative works like scripts, dialogue, and characters. It does not cover short names or titles.
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Trademark protects names, logos, and brand identifiers in commerce. This makes it the right legal tool for protecting a show’s title.
That’s why every successful show protects its brand name with trademarks, not just copyrights.
Monitoring Your Trademark
Once registered, you need to monitor your show’s name to stop misuse.
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Use monitoring services to get alerts about new trademark filings.
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Regularly search databases for similar names.
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Keep an eye on new shows or productions in the industry that may resemble your mark.
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Act quickly with legal action if you spot infringement.
Final Thoughts
Trademarking your TV show name in the USA is a smart investment for long-term brand protection. With updated 2025 fees, the minimum cost is $350, but mistakes or custom descriptions can push the cost higher. Filing early, preparing your application carefully, and monitoring your mark will secure your show’s identity and open the door for licensing, merchandising, and brand growth.
