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How Much Does Trademark Cost? (2026 Guide)

Filing: $250–$350/class. Attorney: $500–$2K.

Updated Mar 2026Legal$500–$2,000
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Trademark Registration Costs

ServiceCostTimelineNotes
USPTO TEAS Plus filing$250/class8-12 monthsMust use pre-approved descriptions
USPTO TEAS Standard filing$350/class8-12 monthsCustom descriptions allowed
Online legal service$400–$700 total8-12 monthsLegalZoom, Trademarkia
Trademark attorney$1,000–$2,500 total8-12 monthsFull search + filing + monitoring
Comprehensive TM search$300–$6001-2 weeksHighly recommended before filing
Opposition / dispute$5,000–$25,000+12-24 monthsIf someone challenges your TM
How Costs Compare
14%
69%
USPTO TEAS Plus filing 3%
USPTO TEAS Standard filin 5%
Online legal service 5%
Trademark attorney 14%
Comprehensive TM search 4%
Opposition / dispute 69%

Pro Tips for Trademark Registration

Do a comprehensive search BEFORE filing — $300-$600 for a professional search saves you $250-$2,500 in wasted filing fees if a conflict exists. 30% of applications are refused due to conflicts
Use TEAS Plus to save $100 per class — $250 vs $350 per class. The only difference is you must choose from pre-approved goods/services descriptions. Most businesses can find a match
File in the right classes — each class costs $250-$350 extra. Don't over-file in classes you don't need, but don't under-file and leave gaps competitors can exploit
An attorney dramatically increases approval odds — attorney-filed applications have a 50-60% higher approval rate than self-filed. The $500-$1,500 attorney premium often saves money by avoiding refusals and re-filings
File early — first to file wins — the US trademark system is largely first-to-file. Filing 6 months before your competitor means you own the mark. Don't wait until your brand is established
Maintenance is required or you lose it — file a Declaration of Use between years 5-6 ($225), then renew every 10 years ($300/class). Miss these deadlines and your trademark is cancelled

Do You Need a Trademark Attorney?

For a simple, distinctive brand name in one class with no similar existing marks: self-filing or an online service ($250-$700) is fine. For names that are common words, similar to existing marks, or span multiple classes: hire an attorney ($1,000-$2,500). The attorney's value is in the trademark search (catching conflicts before you waste money) and responding to USPTO office actions (50% of applications get one). A refused application means you've lost your filing fee AND may need to rebrand — far more expensive than the attorney's fee.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to trademark a name?▼
USPTO filing: $250-$350 per class. With attorney: $1,000-$2,500 total. Online legal service: $400-$700. Comprehensive search: $300-$600 extra. Most businesses file in 1-2 classes.
How long does trademark registration take?▼
8-12 months from filing to registration. 3-4 months to get assigned an examining attorney. If you receive an office action, add 3-6 months for responses.
Can I trademark a name myself?▼
Yes — the USPTO TEAS system is designed for self-filing. However, attorney-filed applications have significantly higher approval rates. Self-file for simple, distinctive names. Use an attorney for anything complex.
What's the difference between ™ and ®?▼
™ can be used immediately without registration — it shows you claim trademark rights. ® can only be used AFTER federal registration is granted. Using ® before registration is illegal.
How long does a trademark last?▼
Indefinitely — as long as you continue using it in commerce and file maintenance documents. Declaration of Use at years 5-6, then renewal every 10 years ($300/class per renewal).
What if someone is already using my desired name?▼
If they have a registered trademark: you likely can't use it in the same industry. If they're using it without registration: it depends on who used it first and in what geographic area. An attorney can assess your options.
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📊 Data Sources
Pricing from provider surveys, RealSelf, and industry reports. Updated March 2026.