A trademark application guide helps you understand the USPTO registration process, estimate total filing costs, and decide between TEAS Plus and TEAS Standard applications. Use this interactive guide to plan your trademark strategy before filing.
Trademark Application Details
TEAS Plus requires use of USPTO's Acceptable Identification of Goods/Services Manual
There are 45 international classes (1–34 goods, 35–45 services)
Estimated Total Cost
Cost Breakdown
USPTO Registration Process
Trademark law is complex. This guide is for informational purposes only. Consult a trademark attorney for advice on your specific mark and situation.
How to Use the Trademark Application Guide
This trademark application guide helps you estimate the total cost and timeline for registering a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Understanding the process before you start saves time and prevents costly mistakes.
Step 1: Choose TEAS Plus or TEAS Standard
TEAS Plus ($250/class) requires you to use exact descriptions from the USPTO's Acceptable Identification of Goods/Services Manual — a pre-approved list. If your goods or services exactly match an entry in this manual, TEAS Plus saves you $100 per class. TEAS Standard ($350/class) allows you to describe your goods and services in your own words, but the examiner may issue an office action asking you to clarify using acceptable IDs.
Step 2: Determine How Many Classes You Need
The USPTO organizes goods and services into 45 international classes. Each class requires a separate fee. If you're registering a software product (Class 9) and providing related consulting services (Class 42), you need two classes and pay twice the per-class fee. Most small businesses can protect their brand with 1–2 classes.
ITU vs. Use-Based Applications
If you're already using your mark in commerce (selling products with the mark, offering services under the name), file under Section 1(a) — use in commerce. If you have a good-faith intent to use the mark but haven't started yet, file under Section 1(b) — Intent to Use (ITU). ITU applications require an additional Statement of Use ($100/class) later when you actually begin using the mark.
FAQ
How much does it cost to trademark a name or logo?
USPTO filing fees are $250–$350 per class of goods/services (TEAS Plus vs Standard). If you use an attorney, add $500–$2,000 in fees. Total for a simple single-class trademark: $750–$2,000. Multi-class registrations multiply by the number of classes.
How long does trademark registration take?
The USPTO trademark process typically takes 8–12 months from filing to registration, assuming no office actions or oppositions. The process: filing → TTAB examination (3–5 months) → publication for opposition (30 days) → registration issued.
What is the difference between TM, SM, and the R symbol?
TM (trademark) and SM (service mark) can be used any time you claim rights to a mark — no registration required. The ® symbol can only be used AFTER your trademark is officially registered with the USPTO. Using ® before registration is a federal violation.
Do I need a trademark attorney?
Not legally required, but recommended. About 50% of pro se (self-filed) trademark applications receive office actions requiring responses. Attorneys improve approval rates and help avoid issues like likelihood of confusion with existing marks. Most charge $500–$1,500 for a straightforward application.
Is this tool free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required. All calculations run locally in your browser.