📅 2026 Update: Changes in Trademark Registration Fees and Processes

Since the original article was published, there have been important changes in the fees and processes related to trademark registration. These updates affect anyone looking to protect their brand in the U.S. The original article continues further down the page, providing foundational knowledge on trademark registration.

💰 Fee Increases

On November 18, 2024, the USPTO issued a final rule to set or increase certain trademark fees. This change impacts the costs associated with filing applications and maintaining registrations. As of now, the base application filing fee stands at $350 per class for electronic applications under Sections 1 or 44.

  • 🔹 International Applications: The fee for international applications under Section 66(a) rose from $500 to $600 per class on February 18, 2025.

⏳ Processing Times

The average processing time for trademark registration has also shifted.

  • 🔸 The first examining action now takes an average of 4.3 months from filing.
  • 🔸 The total processing time to registration or abandonment averages 10.4 months.

📄 Application Changes

There are updated procedures for submitting requests related to trademark applications.

  • 🔹 Applicants must file electronically using the Trademark Center, as paper applications are no longer generally accepted.
  • 🔹 To amend a registration, a written request specifying the amendment and the required fee must be submitted.

📅 Key Deadlines

The deadlines for filing important documents remain crucial for maintaining a trademark.

  • 🔸 For intent-to-use applications, the statement of use must be filed within six months of the notice of allowance.
  • 🔸 Maintenance documents, including the five-year declaration, must be filed between the fifth and sixth year after registration.

📌 Summary of Key Points

  • 🔹 Increased fees for applications and maintenance.
  • 🔹 Average processing times for applications now at 4.3 months for the first action.
  • 🔹 Electronic filing is mandatory.
  • 🔹 Timely submission of maintenance documents is essential.
  • 🔹 Deadlines for statements of use remain critical.

💡 Tips for Trademark Registration

Reviewing your situation with an attorney can help ensure you're on the right path for trademark registration.

📝 Understand Fee Changes

Be aware of the new fees for trademark applications and maintenance. The increases can impact your budget, so plan accordingly.

📅 Keep Track of Deadlines

Timely filing is crucial. Remember to mark deadlines for your statement of use and maintenance documents to avoid losing your trademark rights.

💻 Utilize Online Resources

Take advantage of the USPTO's resources, guides, and FAQs. These can help clarify any questions you have about the trademark registration process.

🏢 Seek Assistance

Consider reaching out to local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) for free or low-cost assistance. They can provide valuable support for navigating the trademark system.

🔍 Monitor Your Trademark

Regularly check for potential infringements of your trademark in the marketplace. This proactive approach can help in protecting your brand.

📄 Maintain Thorough Records

Keep organized records of all documents and communications related to your trademark. Good record-keeping can help in future disputes or renewals.

🏆 Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section covers various services that assist with trademark registration. These options are ranked based on user reviews from Trustpilot, providing insight into their effectiveness. Ratings can change, and they reflect user experiences, with more dissatisfied customers often leaving reviews.

🥇 1. Bizee

Bizee has been rated 4.8. It is known for its business formation services and comprehensive compliance support. However, some users note that it is newer in the trademark registration space, which may affect its familiarity with the process.

🥈 2. LegalZoom

LegalZoom holds a score of 4.6. This service is recognized for offering comprehensive legal services and a user-friendly platform. Some reviewers report delays in processing times, which may impact your registration timeline.

🥉 3. Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer averages 4.5. It is known for affordable legal services and an extensive document library. However, some users find that the subscription model may not suit everyone, potentially leading to unexpected costs.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

The USPTO provides various resources for trademark applicants, including guides and customer service. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers resources and guidance on intellectual property for small businesses. Local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) also provide free or low-cost assistance.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing a Trademark Service

  • 🔹 User ratings and feedback on service quality.
  • 🔹 Fee structures and transparency of costs.
  • 🔹 Types of support offered, such as compliance help.
  • 🔹 Processing times based on user experiences.
  • 🔹 Resources available for ongoing trademark management.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the average time to get a trademark?

The average total processing time for trademark registration is about 10.4 months from filing. This includes waiting for the first examining action.

🔄 Can I change my trademark application after submission?

Yes, you can request minor changes after approval for publication using the appropriate amendment form.

📅 How often do I need to renew my trademark?

You need to file a maintenance document every five years and renew your trademark every ten years to keep your registration active.

📋 What happens if I miss a deadline?

If you miss a deadline for filing a statement of use or maintenance documents, your trademark application may be abandoned, and you may lose your trademark rights.

🌍 Can I protect my trademark internationally?

You can explore the Madrid Protocol for international trademark protection, which allows you to file in multiple countries with a single application.

🛡️ What should I do if someone infringes my trademark?

Regularly monitor the marketplace for infringements. If you find a potential infringement, consider taking appropriate legal action to protect your trademark rights.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Trademark Registration

Several recent court rulings have addressed issues surrounding trademark registration and protection. These cases illustrate ongoing challenges and interpretations within trademark law.

Explore more recent rulings in the news section for up-to-date information on trademark law. more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





A certificate of registration is arguably the most important aspect of trademark registration. After all, obtaining such a certificate is the main purpose behind trademark registration. The certificate of registration is important because it acts as physical evidence that a particular trademark has been appropriately registered at the federal level by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. 

It also acts as evidence that the trademark registration process was successfully completed. Once the necessary procedures and requirements of the trademark registration process are completed, a certificate of registration is issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The certificate itself contains all the pertinent information regarding that particular copyright:

         A reproduction of the trademark

Certificates of Registration in Trademark Registration

         Name of the owner or company

         Date of the first use of the trademark

         Date of the first commercial use of the trademark

         The type of product or consumer good that trademark is used for

         Registration number and date

         Duration term of the trademark

         Date the application was received

         Conditions and restrictions imposed by the nature of the trademark and the product it is used for

A copy of the certificate is kept by the Patent and Trademark Office after the original is bestowed to the trademark owner. The trademark registration process and the actual delivery of the certificate to the owner of the mark, allows for the protection of the trademark under the fullest extent of United States trademark law. Furthermore, the certificate itself acts as prima facie evidence in the event that trademark infringement suits occur. The certificate proves the validity of:

         The registered trademark and registrant's ownership

         The registrants exclusive rights to use the trademark

         Protection against trademark infringement and other violations as provided under United States trademark laws

The application for trademark registration also implies that the trademark is being used, and that no other person can use that mark as long as the trademark is in current use, or an application for trademark registration is pending at either the national or international level. Exceptions to this provision include if the trademark has been abandoned, or registration itself has been canceled. The change of ownership, or the issuance of rights to an assignee, must first be put in to record by the Patent and Trademark Office. 

A new certificate may be issued displaying the name of the new owner or assignee, and a required fee must be paid. The duration of the trademark is not renewed, but the remainder of the term is bestowed upon the new owner. The cancellation or surrendering of a trademark registration must also be put into record by way of application and paying the imposed fee. 

The same process is required for the amendment or correction of information for the trademark registration certificate. The change will be made as long as the trademark itself is not changed from the original, and the provisions for which is granted are not unchanged.