Trademark Fee Increase
.Trademark Filing Fees Set to Increase: What You Need to Know
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is set to increase the fee for trademark filings starting Jan 17, 2025. The fee adjustments, announced by the relevant trademark authority, aim to align with inflation and cover the rising administrative costs associated with trademark registration and maintenance. These changes highlight the importance of understanding the trademark filing process and planning ahead to minimize potential financial impact.
Fee Adjustments and Key Changes
The new fee structure will affect various aspects of the trademark filing process, including initial applications, renewals, and certain post-registration services. For example, the cost of filing an initial trademark application will increase by a specified percentage, depending on the filing method (electronic or paper). Renewal fees are also set to rise, reflecting the administrative effort required to maintain active registrations. Additional changes may include higher fees for filing extensions, responses to office actions, and amendments to existing applications.
Why Are Fees Increasing?
The fee hike is driven by several factors, including inflation, increased demand for trademark registration, and the need to enhance operational efficiency within the trademark office. The funds generated by the fee increase are expected to support the modernization of the trademark registration system, improve processing times, and maintain the quality of services provided to applicants and registrants.
How to Prepare for the Changes
Trademark owners and prospective applicants should review their portfolios and filing strategies in light of the upcoming fee increase. Businesses considering new trademark applications may benefit from submitting them before the new fees take effect. Similarly, owners with trademarks nearing renewal deadlines should consider early action to avoid higher costs.
For those managing multiple trademarks or planning to expand their brand protection efforts, working with a trademark attorney or consultant can provide valuable guidance. A professional can help prioritize filings, ensure compliance with procedural requirements, and minimize unnecessary expenses.
Looking Ahead
While the increased fees may pose a financial challenge for some, the adjustments reflect a broader effort to maintain a robust and efficient trademark registration system. By planning ahead and understanding the new fee structure, businesses and individuals can continue to protect their intellectual property effectively in an evolving regulatory environment.
| Fee Category | Current Fee (USD) | New Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fees | ||
| – Base Application Fee (per class) | $250 (TEAS Plus) | $350 |
| $350 (TEAS Standard) | ||
| Post-Registration Fees | ||
| – Declaration of Use (§8) (per class) | $225 | $250 |
| – Combined Declaration of Use and | $425 | $500 |
| Application for Renewal (§8 and §9) | ||
| Extension Requests | ||
| – Extension of Time to File a Statement | $125 | $150 |
| of Use (per class) | ||
| Petitions | ||
| – Petition to the Director | $250 | $275 |
| Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) Fees | ||
| – Notice of Opposition or Petition to Cancel | $600 | $700 |
| (per class) |
Trademark Application Statistics
Over the past decade, trademark applications have increased by 25% annually.
Rising Application Trends
In 2024, the USPTO received over 700,000 trademark applications, a record high.
Fee Structure Evolution
Since 2015, trademark fees have been adjusted twice to align with service enhancements.
