Starting a business or launching a brand? You’ve probably thought about trademarking your name, logo, or slogan. At La Défense, we get it—protecting your brand is a big deal, but the costs can feel like a mystery. So, how much does it really cost to trademark a brand in the USA? Let’s break it down in a way that’s simple and clear, so you can plan ahead and see why partnering with a law firm like ours might be your best move.

Why Trademark Your Brand?

A trademark isn’t just a fancy symbol—it’s your brand’s legal armor. It stops competitors from copying your identity and gives you exclusive rights to use it. Whether you’re a small business or a growing startup, securing your brand is a smart investment. But what’s the price tag? It depends on a few key factors, starting with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) fees.

USPTO Fees: The Starting Line

The USPTO is where federal trademarks happen, and their fees set the baseline. As of January 18, 2025, they’ve streamlined things with a new fee structure. Here’s what you need to know:

Base Filing Fee

The basic cost to file electronically is $350 per class. A “class” is a category of goods or services—like apparel (Class 25) or tech (Class 9). Selling in multiple categories? You’ll pay $350 for each one. Simple enough, but there’s more to watch out for.

Watch for Surcharges

Mistakes can bump up the bill:

– $100 per class if your application’s incomplete—like missing details the USPTO needs.

– $200 per class if you stray from their pre-approved descriptions in the Trademark ID Manual.

– Nail it the first time, and you’ll keep costs low. Mess up, and you’re looking at $550–$650 per class just to file.

Intent-to-Use Extras

Not using your brand yet? An Intent-to-Use (ITU) filing starts at $350 per class. Later, you’ll pay $150 per class to prove you’ve started using it. Need more time? Extensions are $125 per class every six months, up to five times. Timing matters!

Keeping Your Trademark Alive

Filing’s just step one. To maintain your trademark:

– Section 8 Declaration (proof of use) between years 5-6: $325 per class.

– Section 9 Renewal every 10 years: $325 per class.

Miss a deadline? Add $100 per class for late fees. It’s an ongoing commitment, but worth it for long-term protection.

State Trademarks: A Budget Option?

Going federal too pricey? State trademarks cover just one state and cost less—typically $50–$75 per class (e.g., $70 in California, $50 in Texas). It’s a cheaper shield, but it won’t protect you nationwide. For growing brands, federal’s usually the smarter play.

Why Add a Lawyer to the Mix?

You could file solo, but trademark law’s tricky. At La Défense, we’ve seen DIY attempts go sideways—rejections, extra fees, even legal disputes. A lawyer can:

– Run a thorough search to spot conflicts early.

– Craft a rock-solid application to avoid surcharges.

– Handle USPTO pushback (called Office Actions) if it pops up.

The cost? It varies based on your needs—simple filing or complex multi-class brand. Want specifics? Reach out to us! We’ll walk you through options tailored to your situation, so you’re not guessing.

Total Cost: What’s the Range?

Here’s a quick peek:

– DIY, one class, no hiccups: $350 to file, plus $650 per class over 10 years for maintenance.

– With legal help, one class: $350 filing + lawyer fees (customized to your case).

– Multi-class with extras: Could climb higher with surcharges, extensions, or fixes.

Your exact cost depends on classes, complexity, and whether you team up with pros like us at La Défense.

Tips to Keep Costs Down

– Stick to USPTO’s pre-approved descriptions to dodge the $200 surcharge.

– File complete apps to skip the $100 fee.

– Start with a free USPTO search (TESS database) to get a feel for conflicts.

Ready to Protect Your Brand?

Trademarking your brand in the USA starts at $350 per class, but extras—like maintenance or legal support—add up. At La Défense, we’re here to make it smooth and stress-free. Why risk costly mistakes? Contact us today to chat about your brand and get a plan that fits your budget. Your trademark’s too important to leave to chance—let’s get it done right!

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How Much Does It Cost to Trademark a Brand in the USA?