Benefits of Separately Registering Name and Logo
The cost to trademark a name at the federal level ranges from $225 to $400 plus legal fees or $50 to $150 for a state trademark. The cost to trademark a logo averages $225 to $600 plus any legal fees. You should trademark your logo and name separately. Combining name and logo trademarks limits protection.
Advantages of a name trademark include preventing other businesses from using the name or similar names that could confuse customers.
Reasons to File Separate Applications for Name and Logo
Should you file one application for both name and logo? No, file separate applications.
- Research shows the logo is available but a similar name exists, though not the same, within a related industry. Your attorney may advise one application to improve chances of approval.
- When showing your brand, the logo always appears with the name, but sometimes the name appears without the logo. File for both together and the name alone.
- Your logo defines your brand more than the descriptive name. File for both, budget allowing.
Considerations for Trademarking Name and Logo
Should I trademark name and logo? Protecting intellectual property like names and logos makes sense for businesses investing in brand image. Trademarks identify companies or brands. Registering business names, logos, slogans separately strengthens protection.
Registering names and logos together requires using exact combination. Nike files separately, allowing flexibility. Weigh options. Names often copied inadvertently, not logos. Names build recognition more than logos. Logos change more than names. Prioritize registering word marks without fonts or designs.
Can you trademark two things at once?
Protecting intellectual property makes sense for businesses investing in brand image. Trademarks like names and logos identify companies or brands. Registering them strengthens protection. Combining registrations requires exact usage. Separate filings allow flexibility.
Weigh budget and strategy. Both filings ideal but name takes priority when money is tight. Logos also qualify for copyright. Apply before sales to establish rights once mark used in commerce. Exclusive usage rights prevent confusion. Recourse against unauthorized use protects integrity. However, costs and delays frustrate applicants.
Summary: Two ways to trademark exist. Common law builds reputation over time. Registration confers full legal protection.