3- Minute Trademark Training

Avoid a HUGE branding blunder by completing this quick, 3-minute USPTO search today.

The USPTO, or the United States Patent and Trademark Office, has a public register of all trademarks that you can search at home, on your phone, right now!

(Feel free time save this post to remind you how to access the USPTO whenever you need to)

1. Head on over to USPTO.gov, which is the official website for the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

2. Once you’re there, click “Menu” > “Trademarks” > “Application Process” > and then “Searching Trademarks.”

3. Click the “Search our Trademark Database (TESS)” button. Then select “Basic Work Mark Search.” This will be the simplest search for you to start with.

4. Here, type in the name of your trademark (business name or slogan) and then click “Submit Query”. The search engine will populate for you all registered trademarks and pending applications with the USPTO.

5. Check the results. Anything exactly the same as your business name/slogan/phrase/etc. is a HUGE red flag. Any names close to your business name could also be a major rebranding headache or every lawsuit.

Note: THIS is a preliminary search of the USPTO register and you should consult with an attorney to complete a full, comprehensive search in order to assess potential common law trademark infringement.

*Disclaimer: This post is strictly for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.