A brand name is also referred to as a trademark. A trademark is the familiar ‘r’ character with the circle around it, also known as registered trademark. There is a particular process to follow in legally registering a brand name. According to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, “you are encouraged to view the instructional videos to learn how to avoid common filing mistakes.”

Things You Will Need

  • Contact information for U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

  • Brand name design

  • Filing fee

Preparation

Ready your brand name mark that you wish to use. The mark options include the standard character format, or stylized or design format. For the design format, you will need to research existing design formats to verify there is no conflict.

Familiarize yourself with general guidelines applied to trademark filing as it is a lengthy procedure requiring proper planning. You should understand the process, talk to an attorney and also be aware of the deadlines you need to meet while filing the papers.

Research your created mark to verify that it is not in conflict with an existing mark. You can research your mark online without charge through the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS).

Write up an identification of Goods and Services you offer that associate with your brand name. Research examples of acceptable identification of goods and services

Registering Your Brand Name

Register your brand name by filing a trademark application online (see References). Prior to filling out the form, review the instructional video (see References).

Include your statement of identification of goods and services.

Pay your filing fee as instructed from the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS). You will receive a serial number for your records. This number must also be used in the event you have any reason for correspondence with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Monitor your trademark application’s progress using the Trademark Application and Registration Retrieval (TARR) System database.

Familiarize yourself with the process and possible setbacks you might have so that you are prepared to respond to any deficiencies put forth to you from the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Consider having access to an attorney to help you any issues that arise while procuring your brand name.

Tip

Research all recommended aspects to trademark filers indicated on the United States Patent and Trademark Office website.

Warning

Failure to properly prepare any filing will result in a delay or denial or your trademark request to register your brand name logo.