How Much Does it Cost to Trademark a Name in 2025?

If you’re building a brand, whether it’s a business, a product, or even a side hustle, trademarking your name is one of the smartest steps you can take. But how much does it cost to trademark a name in 2025? The short answer: it depends. The long answer? We’ll break it all down for you right here.

From government filing fees to legal help (if you go that route), there are a few moving parts when it comes to trademark costs. This guide covers everything you need to know, without the legal jargon, so you can decide what makes the most sense for your brand and budget.

Why Trademark a Name in the First Place?

Before we get into the numbers, let’s talk about why a trademark matters.

When you trademark a name, you’re essentially locking it in. It gives you the exclusive right to use that name for your goods or services, and keeps others from using something that’s too close for comfort. It’s like planting your flag and saying, “This name is mine.”

Here’s what a trademark helps you do:

• Stop others from copying your brand name
• Build trust and credibility with customers
• Add value to your business (especially if you ever plan to sell it)
• Gain legal protection if someone tries to infringe on your name

If you’re serious about protecting what you’re building, trademarking is more than just a formality, it’s a smart business move.

So, How Much Does It Cost to Trademark a Name in 2025?

Here’s where we get to the numbers. The cost to trademark a name can range from $250 to over $1,000, depending on how you go about it.

Let’s break it down:

1. USPTO Filing Fees: $250–$350 Per Class

When you file a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), you’ll pay a non-refundable filing fee. The fee depends on the type of application form you choose and how many classes of goods/services you want to protect.

• TEAS Plus Form: $250 per class (stricter requirements)
• TEAS Standard Form: $350 per class (more flexible)

What’s a “class”?: It’s the category your product or service falls under. If you’re selling clothing and offering digital courses, those are two different classes, and you’ll pay a fee for each one.

2. Attorney Fees (Optional but Recommended): $500–$1,500+

You don’t have to hire a trademark attorney, but many people do, especially if you want to avoid costly mistakes.

Trademark law can be tricky. An attorney can:

• Run a proper trademark search
• Help you avoid conflicts
• File everything correctly the first time
• Respond to any legal issues that come up during the review process

Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more, depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience.

3. Trademark Search Fees (Optional): $0–$300

Before you apply, you’ll want to make sure the name you want isn’t already taken or too similar to something that is. You can do a basic search for free using the USPTO’s TESS database, but some people choose to pay for a more thorough search.

• DIY search: Free (but limited)
• Professional search: $100–$300, depending on the provider

4. Maintenance Fees Down the Road

Trademark protection isn’t a one-and-done deal. Once your trademark is registered, you’ll need to file maintenance documents at specific intervals to keep your registration active and enforceable.

Here’s what that timeline looks like, along with the updated costs as of 2025:

• Between years 5–6: You must file a Section 8 declaration of use ($325 per class).
• Optional at this stage: You can also file a Section 15 declaration of incontestability to strengthen your legal rights ($250 per class, or $575 if filed together with Section 8).
• 10-year renewal: At the 10-year mark (and every 10 years after), you’ll need to file a combined Section 8 and Section 9 renewal ($650 per class).
• Grace periods: If you miss a deadline, you can still file within a grace period, but you’ll pay an extra $100 per class on top of the regular fee.

Staying on top of these filings is crucial. If you miss them entirely, your trademark could be canceled, even if you’re still actively using the name.

Can You Trademark a Name Without a Lawyer?

Yes, you can. Many business owners file their trademark applications on their own using the USPTO website. If your name is unique and you’re only filing in one class, you might be just fine doing it yourself.

That said, if your name is more general or you’re unsure about the process, working with an attorney can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches in the long run.

Is Trademarking Worth the Cost?

In most cases, yes. If your name is part of your brand identity, it’s worth protecting. Waiting too long or skipping the process could lead to legal trouble or rebranding down the road, which can be far more expensive than the upfront cost of trademarking.

Final Thoughts

So, how much does it cost to trademark a name in 2025? On average, you’re looking at $250 to $350 in government fees per class, plus optional legal fees if you decide to hire a pro. While it’s not dirt cheap, it’s a worthwhile investment if you want to protect your brand and set yourself up for long-term success.

If you’re just getting started, take some time to research your name, understand what class(es) you’ll need, and decide whether you want help filing. Whether you go DIY or hire a lawyer, the most important thing is to take action before someone else does.

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