Our small business guide to trademarks is the perfect place to start when introducing a new product or service. Introducing a new product to the market is exciting for any business owner. One of the most critical steps in the process is ensuring that your product's name and logo are protected by registering for a trademark. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the process of registering a trademark for your new product in the United States.
Step 1: Conduct a trademark search
Before you begin the registration process, it's essential to conduct a trademark search to ensure that your product's name and logo aren't already in use by another business. You can conduct a search through the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website. This will help you to avoid any legal issues down the road.
The US Patent and Trademark Office provides a very helpful web search tool. Click on the button labeled Search our trademark database (TESS). See image below for an example.
Step 2: Choose yOUR tRADEMARK cLASS
A trademark class is a category of goods or services that your product falls under. The USPTO has 45 different classes that range from clothing to software. It is essential to choose the correct class as it will affect the scope of protection for your trademark.
Step 3: pREPARE AND fILE yOUR aPPLICATION
Once you have determined that your product's name and logo are unique and have chosen the appropriate class, you can begin preparing your application. This can be done online through the USPTO website. The application must include a product description, your name and address, and any relevant documentation, such as a logo or branding materials.
Step 4: wAIT fOR aPPROVAL
Once your application has been filed, it will be reviewed by the USPTO. This can take several months. You will be notified if your application has been approved or if any additional information is required.
Step 5: uSE yOUR tRADEMARK
Once your trademark has been approved, it's important to use it correctly. This means placing the trademark symbol (™) next to your product's name and logo. This will help to prevent others from using your product's name and logo without permission.
Step 6: rENEW yOUR tRADEMARK
Trademarks need to be renewed every 10 years. It is essential to renew your trademark in order to maintain the legal protection of your product's name and logo.
Registering a trademark for your new product is important in protecting your brand and ensuring that your product stands out in the market. By following these steps and working with the USPTO, you can register a trademark for your new product and take the necessary steps to protect your brand.
cONCLUSION
Registering a trademark for your new product is an important step in protecting your brand and ensuring that your product stands out in the market. It is important to conduct a trademark search before registering, choose the correct class, prepare and file the application, wait for approval, use your trademark correctly, and renew it every 10 years. The process can take several months and it is important to work with the USPTO to ensure you have the legal protection of your product's name and logo.
faq
Can I submit a trademark application myself?
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides all the information you need to file a trademark. And, in simple cases, registering a trademark is easy and you could do it yourself. If you believe there might be some possible conflict with existing brands, you should consider legal help.
How much does it cost to own a trademark?
You should plan to pay between $250 and $700 to file a trademark. You can plan to pay about the same amount every 10 years to renew your trademark.
