How much does it cost to trademark a business name in South Carolina? Before proceeding, consider whether a trademark application is the best option. Evaluate its potential value and whether it is worth investing in the registration process. Trademarks can be registered at the state and federal levels. Enlist a top trademark service provider for a seamless process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Trademark
This article provides a step-by-step guide on registering a trademark in South Carolina. It discusses the importance of protection. After verifying availability, complete filing to register your business name. Pick the process matching your structure.
Do a business entity search to ensure your name is distinguishable from others. Names must be unique.
A trademark’s cost varies case by case. Filing fees, lifetime costs and attorney fees should be considered. With experience, Rob Watts breaks down topics for small businesses.
Cost Breakdown
- Filing yourself costs $250-$350 per class.
- Attorneys charge $750-$2400, including fees.
- Services charge $300-$850 per class.
- A state trademark costs $50-$75.
- Total cost depends on the application and number of classes.
Once name availability is confirmed, check the .com domain. Although not every business needs a website, secure the domain.
State registration grants you the right to conduct business within state boundaries, not trademark protection.
After filing, the USPTO takes 4-6 months to examine and approve or deny the application.
Utilize the SOS website to search existing names, avoiding duplication. Also visit their business entity search page.
You can register a federal trademark for your business name by filing an application with the USPTO’s online Trademark Electronic Application Service (TEAS) or through an online trademark service. The next step in how to trademark a business name is to consider using an attorney.
For anyone that wants to establish a brand presence on the market, trademarking their business—and having a trading name—are both crucial steps to protecting an entire business legacy.
Trademarking a Small Business Name
To trademark a brand name, the cost to trademark is between $275 and $325 for the filing fees. Additionally, you’ll pay applicable attorney fees, maintenance fees in the future, and potential state fees of $50-$150.
The average cost to trademark a name or logo is $250 to $350 per class of goods or services when filing yourself. Trademark attorneys charge $750 to $2,400 per class, including the filing fees, while trademark services charge $300 to $850 per class.
Do I need a trademark attorney? Unfortunately, many small business owners fail to determine whether the name they have chosen for their product or business is actually available for them to legally use.
Determining how much it will cost for you to obtain a trademark on a name depends on several different factors. Considering the costs of trademark registration, it’s important for entrepreneurs to weigh the benefits of trademarking their business name. Legal protection is a key benefit.