How to File for Logos & Trademarks
A logo is a symbol or design that identifies an organization or its products. Trademarks differ from logos in that they include words as well as a symbol to represent a company or its products. These devices can be very important to a company's image. After a company chooses a logo or trademark, it is important to file it or copyright it so the mark is legally protected and the company owns the exclusive rights to use it.
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Instructions
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Go to the United States Patent and Trademark office website. Fill out the electronic trademark petition form.
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Research if any company has copyrighted your possible logo or trademark by searching through the U.S. Patent and Trademark website. There is a Trademark Electronic Search System available on the website.
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Submit a detailed written description of your logo or trademark. Provide a copy of the actual logo to the website with your application.
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Complete the form and submit it electronically on the website. You may need to provide the name, email address and home or business address of the owner of the mark, as well as a list of the goods and services represented by the logo or trademark. A receipt and serial number will be sent to your email after the form is submitted.
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Allow your application to be reviewed, which could take two or three months. If the application is approved, the trademark or logo will be registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
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Tips & Warnings
Your application may be rejected at first for various reasons. This could be due to an incomplete application or an existing similar mark. It is best to cooperate with the trademark examiner if this happens.
After your application is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, there is a 30-day period for an opposing party to file a complaint if there is a problem. Check with the office to see if a complaint is filed.
The USPTO does accept printed applications. To have one sent to you, call 800-786-9199.
Mail the printed form to:
Commissioner for Trademarks
P.O. Box 1451
Alexandria, VA 22313-1451
