How to Register a Business Name Nationally
- 1). Create a list of potential business names that you would like to use to brand your business. Federal trademarks may consist of a "standard character mark" with words, letters and symbols. You may trademark your standard business name without adding any special design elements. However, you may also choose to create special symbols or designs as part of your national trademark.
- 2). Open the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) "Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS)" page to conduct a search for your desired business name. Choose a search option and enter the business name you want to use. Run a search and click on the individual listings if you want more information on a particular trademark. First and foremost, confirm that the trademark you want to register is not already registered or applied for by another trademark applicant.
- 3). Open the USPTO "Selection of Application Type" page. Read through the instructions and pick either the "TEAS Form" or "TEAS Plus Form." Although the USPTO charges less for a TEAS Plus application, you must read the instructions to determine if you qualify for this application. Alternatively, you may call 800-786-9199 to request a paper application. Follow the submission instructions on the form when using a paper application.
- 4). Fill out your chosen trademark application. You must choose one or more trademark classes (product or service classifications) within the application. Use the "Trademark Acceptable Identification of Goods and Services" manual to determine the correct international classification ("IC") for your product.
- 5). Pay the application fee. As of 2010, the fee is $325 for the TEAS application per trademark class, $275 per class for the TEAS Plus application and $375 per class for a paper application. When registering online, pay by credit card, electronic check or deposit account. When registering with a paper form, pay by credit card, deposit account, check, cashier's check or money order, payable to the "Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office." Use the "Credit Card Payment Form" when paying by credit card through the mail. Use the "Deposit Account Application Form" to set up a chargeable deposit account with the USPTO.
