💰Possible Penalty Fees for Trademark Applications for You?


November 25, 2024


Hello Reader,

I want to inform you about significant changes to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) trademark application process, effective January 18, 2025.

​USPTO​

Key Changes:

  1. Single Application Option: The USPTO will consolidate the current TEAS Plus and TEAS Standard applications into a single filing option.
  2. New Surcharges:
    • Custom Descriptions: Using a custom description of goods and services not found in the USPTO's Trademark ID Manual will incur a $200 per class surcharge.
    • Lengthy Descriptions: Descriptions exceeding 1,000 characters will face an additional $200 per class surcharge for each additional 1,000-character increment.

The new fee structure introduces higher surcharges to discourage overly broad or vague descriptions, aiming to enhance the clarity and efficiency of the trademark registration process.

Implications:

  • Increased Costs: Applicants using custom or lengthy descriptions will face higher fees, potentially raising the overall cost of trademark registration.
  • Enhanced Scrutiny: The USPTO's focus on precise descriptions may lead to more rigorous examination of applications, increasing the importance of accurate and specific filings.

Recommendations:

  • Review Descriptions: Carefully assess your goods and services descriptions to align with the USPTO's Trademark ID Manual, avoiding unnecessary surcharges.
  • Seek Professional Guidance: Consulting with a trademark attorney can help navigate these changes, ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of additional fees or application issues.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your trademark filings, please feel free to reach out. We're here to help you navigate these updates effectively.

Keep Your Brand Safe and Protected,​
​

J.J. Lee and the Trademark Lawyer Law Firm Team!

PS. Contact us to mark sure your business is protected!

​trademarklawyerfirm.com​
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J.J. Lee, Trademark Attorney

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