How do you get a trademark or service mark?
Trademarks Online: Applications to file a Trademark or Service Mark registration can be submitted online through the California Secretary of State’s bizfile California portal, in person at the Sacramento office, or through the mail.
What is the difference between trademark and service mark?
The word “trademark” can refer to both trademarks and service marks. A trademark is used for goods, while a service mark is used for services. A trademark: Identifies the source of your goods or services.
What is the cheapest way to trademark?
The cheapest way to trademark a name is by filing with your state. The cost varies depending on where you live and what type of business you own. If you are a corporation or LLC, you can expect to pay less than $150 in most cases, while sole proprietors and contractors can pay anywhere between $50 to $150.
Do I really need to trademark my logo?
Since trademarks are used to identify a company or brand, it makes the most sense to file for trademark protection on the brand name, logo or image. … So, if you are investing in a brand image, you should seek a trademark registration to protect it. But, your image may also qualify for copyright protection as well.
How long does a trademark take to get approved?
Usually, the process takes 12 to 18 months. Registering your trademark is a complex procedure that involves your application moving through various stages. Learning about each stage in the process will help you understand why getting a trademark takes as long as it does.
How long does a trademark last?
How long does a trademark last in the US? In the United States, a federal trademark can potentially last forever, but it has to be renewed every ten years. If the mark is still being used between the 5th and the 6th year after it was registered, then the registration can be renewed.
Can I trademark my name?
But a trademark can be a word, phrase, letter, number, sound, scent, logo, shape, packaging or picture. … “If you have a business or you are a brand in yourself such as an entertainer or sporting star, you may apply for a trademark on goods and services to protect your brand to protect them from similar businesses.
Is LegalZoom worth it for trademarks?
The LegalZoom trademark search and other trademark services may seem like appealing alternatives to hiring an attorney. But while LegalZoom may be cheaper in some cases, it can also be a complete waste of money in others. And it never provides the value that you get from working with a real attorney.
What is the difference between copyright and trademark?
Copyright protects original work, whereas a trademark protects items that distinguish or identify a particular business from another. Copyright is generated automatically upon the creation of original work, whereas a trademark is established through common use of a mark in the course of business.
What is common law trademark?
A common law trade mark is an unregistered trade mark which has been used (such as a brand name or in advertising) in relation to certain goods or services to such an extent that it is recognised as distinguishing the goods and services of the business using that mark from those of other businesses.