Read Steven's bio.
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
Trademark your company name yourself
Q: How expensive is it to trademark the name of my small business? Do I need a lawyer?
A: Who needs to pay a lawyer when you come here for free? I'll show you how to easily trademark your name yourself, and save you about $1,000 in the process. A trademark usually consists of a word, phrase, logo or other symbol, and is used to distinguish a product from others on the market. Think of the Nike "swoosh" or the name "Quicken" and you are thinking trademark. A trademark is different from a copyright or a patent. A copyright protects an original artistic or literary work; a patent protects an invention.
There are two fees usually associated with trademarking a company name:
- Filing fees: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) charges a $245 filing fee to trademark something.
- Attorney fees: These can run anywhere from $500 to $1,000.
However, you don't need a lawyer because you can easily register a trademark yourself online. Simply go to www.uspto.gov. There you will find an easy–to–use online registration process. Follow the directions, pay the $245 via credit card, and put the money you would have paid your lawyer in a mutual fund.
Some issues discussed in the expert forum are complex and continually changing.We recommend you consult a professional advisor about your specific circumstances, needs, and applicable laws. More details.