How to Calculate Trademark Application Fees

Trademark application fees can be confusing, but knowing what to expect can help you budget and plan ahead. Whether you’re filing from Kansas City or Boulder, understanding the costs of protecting your brand is an important step for any entrepreneur.

Learn more about trademarks in general here.

(Note: These prices are accurate as of February 2025 but are subject to change.)

Actual Use vs. Intent to Use Applications

There are two primary types of trademark applications, and each has different fee structures:

• Actual Use – If you are already using your mark in commerce, you will typically pay a single filing fee of $350 per mark, per class.
• Intent to Use – If you plan to use the mark in the future, you will initially pay $350 per mark, per class. Once the application is approved, you must file a Statement of Use to prove actual use, which costs an additional $150. If you need more time, extensions are available for $125 per request.

Learn more about the differences between these applications.

What Does “Per Mark, Per Class” Mean?

Each application applies to one specific mark (such as a business name or logo). If you want to protect multiple versions of your brand, each must be filed separately.

Additionally, trademark fees apply per class of goods/services. If your business operates in multiple industries, you may need to file in multiple classes, increasing costs.

Example Cost Breakdown:

• Filing for the word mark NewCo in connection with beer: $350
• Filing for both the word mark and logo for beer: $700 ($350 × 2 marks)
• Filing for the word mark for beer and clothing: $700 ($350 × 2 classes)
• Filing for both the word mark and logo for beer and clothing: $1,400 ($350 × 2 marks × 2 classes)

Standard Application Fees

For most startups, freelancers, and small businesses, the base filing fee is $350 per mark, per class. This assumes the application is filed electronically through the USPTO website and meets the standard requirements.

Other Fees to Consider

USPTO filing fees are just one part of the cost of trademark protection. You may also need to budget for:

• Trademark searches – Conducting a professional search to ensure your mark isn’t already in use.
• Legal fees – Law firms charge for application preparation and filing. Pixel Law offers fixed fees for most trademark applications, which you can learn about on this pricing page.

Understanding trademark fees upfront can help you avoid surprises and ensure that your brand is properly protected from the start.

*This article is general in nature and is not legal advice.