Frequently Asked Questions

A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, design, or combination that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services. Registering with the USPTO gives you exclusive nationwide rights to use that mark in connection with your goods or services.

A common law trademark is established simply by using a mark in commerce. However, rights are limited to your geographic area. Federal registration provides nationwide protection, legal presumption of ownership, the right to use ®, and ability to bring action in federal court.

Many companies trademark both, but if you must prioritize, trademarking your name typically provides broader protection. A word mark protects the text regardless of display style, while a logo mark only protects that specific design.

A domain name is simply a web address — it provides no legal rights to the name itself. A trademark gives you exclusive legal rights to use that name in connection with your goods or services.

Yes, many companies register slogans as trademarks, especially if the slogan is a key part of brand identity. To be registrable, a slogan should be distinctive and not merely descriptive of your goods or services.

You will need: the exact mark to register, a description of goods/services, the trademark class, the owner's legal name and address, a specimen showing use in commerce (if applicable), and the date of first use.