Updates to Trademark Fees in 2025: What You Need To Know

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has enacted adjustments to its trademark fee structure, effective January 18, 2025. These changes aim to align fees with the actual costs of services and to promote more efficient application processes. As a business owner or individual seeking trademark protection, understanding these updates is crucial for effective planning and budgeting.

Key Changes in Trademark Application Fees

The USPTO is transitioning from the previous two-tiered application system—TEAS Plus and TEAS Standard—to a single base application fee of $350 per class for applications filed under Sections 1 and 44. This change simplifies the filing process but introduces additional surcharges based on application completeness and specificity.

Additional Surcharges

1. Incomplete Applications: A $100 per class fee will be imposed on applications lacking required information, such as the applicant's citizenship or the state or country of incorporation for businesses.
2. Custom Goods/Services Descriptions: Utilizing custom descriptions instead of selecting from the USPTO's pre-approved Trademark ID Manual will incur a $200 per class surcharge.
3. Lengthy Descriptions: For descriptions exceeding 1,000 characters, an additional $200 per class will be charged for each subsequent 1,000-character block.

Impact on International Applications

‍For applications filed under the Madrid Protocol (Section 66(a)), the base application fee will increase from $500 to $600 per class, effective February 18, 2025. Notably, these applications are currently exempt from the new surcharges due to limitations in the World Intellectual Property Organization's fee collection capabilities.

Increases in Post-Registration Maintenance Fees

‍The USPTO is also raising fees for various post-registration filings to better reflect processing costs:

• Section 8 Declarations: Increased from $225 to $325 per class.
• Section 15 Declarations: Increased from $200 to $250 per class.
• Section 9 Renewals: Increased from $300 to $325 per class.

Case Study: Navigating the New Fee Structure

‍Imagine a Florida-based apparel company named "Sunshine Threads," who is planning to trademark its brand name under two classes: clothing and retail store services. Under the new fee structure, their application costs would be as follows:

• Base Application Fee: $350 x 2 classes = $700
• If the company uses a custom description for its goods/services: $200 x 2 classes = $400
• If the description exceeds 1,000 characters: An additional $200 per class may apply.

By opting for pre-approved descriptions from the Trademark ID Manual and ensuring concise entries, Sunshine Threads can avoid additional surcharges, resulting in significant cost savings.

Strategic Recommendations

‍To minimize costs and streamline the application process:

• Utilize Pre-Approved Descriptions: Select goods and services descriptions from the USPTO's Trademark ID Manual to avoid the $200 surcharge per class.
• Ensure Application Completeness: Double-check that all required information is provided at the time of filing to prevent the $100 per class incomplete application fee.
• Be Concise: Keep descriptions within 1,000 characters to avoid additional fees.

The USPTO fee changes reinforce what many business owners already know—navigating the trademark process is far from simple. Between selecting the right classifications, ensuring precise descriptions, and avoiding costly fees, even small missteps can lead to unnecessary expenses, delays, or outright refusals. The reality is, trademark protection isn’t just about filing a form; it’s about understanding the law, avoiding pitfalls, and ensuring your brand is properly secured.

Rather than spending hours deciphering USPTO requirements, second-guessing your application, or dealing with unexpected fees, let Munizzi Law Firm handle the process for you. We have the experience, knowledge, and strategic insight to ensure your trademark is filed correctly the first time—saving you time, stress, and money. Don’t risk complications that could cost you thousands or jeopardize your brand’s protection. Contact Munizzi Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and let us take care of your trademark needs, so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.