How Much Do Clothes Design Patents Cost?
Design patents are issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to protect fabric designs from being duplicated by others for profit for a period of 14 years. Clothing fabric patents require the payment of application, filing, examination and issuance fees.
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Small Entity Fees
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Fee discounts are granted to small entities, defined by the USPTO as independent inventors, small businesses and nonprofit organizations. These applicants are eligible for a 50 percent discount on all patenting fees.
Filing Fees
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As of September, 15, 2009, design patent filing fees are $220 ($110 for small entities). These are non-refundable, regardless of whether a patent is issued. .
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Search Fees
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Design patent search fees are $100 ($50 for small entities) as of September, 15, 2009. These are paid to check that the design is not already patented.
Examination Fees
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As of September, 15, 2009, design patent examination fees are $140 ($70 for small entities). These cover the verification of the patent's application claims.
Issuance (Post-Allowance) Fees
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Design patent issuance fees are $860 ($430 for small entities) as of September, 15, 2009. These are only paid if a patent application is approved.
Total Fees
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Total design patent fees, as of September 15, 2009, are $1,320 ($660 for small entities).
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