Changes in USPTO Fees: What You Need to Know

As the new year begins, entrepreneurs and businesses face updated fee structures from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). While fee increases might seem like a reason to hesitate, they underscore the importance of acting swiftly to protect your brand and intellectual property. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing and why securing your trademark is still one of the best investments you can make for your business.

What Are the New USPTO Fee Changes?

Starting in 2025, the USPTO has implemented an increase in filing fees for trademarks and patents. Key changes include:

• Trademark Filing Fees: Initial application fees for trademarks have increased, with higher costs for additional classes and TEAS Plus applications.

• Renewal Fees: Renewing your trademark will now cost more, particularly for late filings.

• Petition and Appeal Fees: Filing petitions or appealing decisions has become more expensive.

These increases reflect the USPTO's efforts to maintain high-quality services, keep up with technology, and reduce backlogs in trademark and patent processing.

Why You Should Still Protect Your Trademark

While fee increases might feel like an added burden, protecting your trademark is more critical than ever. Here’s why:

1. Your Brand is Your Identity

Your trademark is your business's most recognizable asset. It distinguishes your products or services from competitors and builds trust with your audience. A small upfront investment in trademark protection safeguards this identity from being misused by others.

2. The Cost of Not Protecting Your Brand is Higher

If someone else registers your business name, logo, or slogan, you may face costly legal battles to reclaim your intellectual property—or risk losing it altogether. The increased USPTO fees are minimal compared to the potential expense of litigation or rebranding.

3. Trademarks Increase Business Value

A registered trademark enhances your business’s credibility and can even increase its valuation. If you plan to sell, expand, or franchise your business, having a protected trademark is a powerful asset that attracts potential buyers or partners.

4. Enforcement Power with Federal Registration

With a federally registered trademark, you gain stronger enforcement rights, including the ability to sue in federal court and stop counterfeit goods at the border. Without this protection, your enforcement options are limited.

Why Now is the Time to Act

The fee increases emphasize that waiting to protect your intellectual property only gets more expensive. By acting now, you:

• Lock in current filing rates before any further adjustments.

• Ensure your brand is protected as your business grows.

• Avoid the risk of losing your preferred name, logo, or tagline to a competitor.

How We Can Help

At Guided Growth Legal™, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs and small businesses navigate the trademark registration process with ease. Whether you're starting from scratch or need assistance with renewals, our team ensures your application is handled accurately and efficiently—saving you time and stress.

Don’t let the new USPTO fees discourage you. Protecting your brand is a smart, long-term investment in your business’s success.

Have Questions About Trademark Protection?

Contact us today at (925) 786-3424 for a consultation. Let’s ensure your brand is protected and positioned for growth, regardless of the changing fee landscape.

Protect your brand now—because your business deserves it!