State vs. Federal Trademark Registration
The cheapest way to trademark is to file with your state. The cost varies. If you are a corporation or LLC, expect to pay less than $150. Sole proprietors and contractors pay $50 to $150. While cheaper, state filing only provides local protection.
Filing a US Trademark
You can apply for a US trademark yourself or use a lawyer. If you apply yourself, you pay the filing fee, which costs around $250. The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) lists fees here. If you use a lawyer, costs vary based on their work and time, with hourly charges ranging from $200 to $300.
Common Law Trademarks and Additional Costs
Acquire a trademark by using it with your business, though exceptions and limits apply. The USPTO reviews applications, and registered trademarks have advantages like presumed validity.
Initial application costs are $250 to $350, and additional costs may include drawing fees and extensions of time. Renewals will also incur costs.
Cheapest Filing Options
Where is the cheapest place to file a trademark?
The cheapest way to file for a trademark is yourself, through the USPTO’s website, costing you around $300.
Using DIY services from legal websites such as LegalZoom typically costs $200 to $300.
Filing a trademark in the US without breaking the bank is quite possible by doing it yourself online through the USPTO, with fees ranging from $225 to $325 per class.
Is Free Trademark Registration Possible?
While you cannot register a trademark for free outright, establishing a "common law trademark" through business use can offer limited protection at no cost.
Registering a trademark with your state costs $50-$150, while federal registration offers more protection but costs $275 per class. Lawyers for application assistance charge $200-$300 per hour.