For many founders, the idea of securing a federal trademark feels like an important milestone in building a real and recognizable brand. It is often the moment when a business shifts from an idea to a legally protected asset. Still, one of the biggest concerns new entrepreneurs have is the cost. How much should you expect to spend on trademark registration, and what factors influence the total investment? More importantly, how can you protect your brand while staying within a reasonable budget?

At Cohn Legal, PLLC, we work closely with startups across the country and understand how essential transparency is when it comes to legal fees. Your brand is everything, and protecting it should not feel like a mystery. This article walks you through the true cost of trademark registration, including government fees, attorney fees, optional expenses, and the financial risks of doing things incorrectly.

Understanding USPTO Filing Fees

Every trademark application begins with USPTO filing fees. These are required no matter who files the application. The amount you pay depends on the type of application and how many classes of goods and services your mark will cover.

Most startups will file using the TEAS Standard or TEAS Plus option. TEAS Plus is the least expensive choice, and the current fee is generally lower compared to TEAS Standard. The difference between the two filings usually depends on whether you can find a pre-approved description for your goods and services in the USPTO ID Manual. If your description is more customized, you will likely need the Standard form.

Another essential point is that fees are charged per class. If your brand covers both apparel and downloadable software, you will pay for two separate classes. Many founders get caught off guard by this detail, which is why planning ahead is so important.

USPTO fees are nonrefundable, even if the USPTO later refuses your application. Because of this, it is crucial to ensure your application is accurate before submitting anything.

Attorney Fees and Why They Matter

Attorney fees vary based on experience, scope of services, and how complex your trademark situation is. Some firms charge hourly rates, while many boutique trademark firms like Cohn Legal, PLLC offer flat fee trademark packages. Startups appreciate this approach because it allows them to budget accurately without worrying about unexpected increases.

Attorney fees typically include tasks such as a comprehensive clearance search, preparation of the application, strategic drafting of the goods and services, and ongoing communication with the USPTO throughout the process. A clearance search is especially valuable because it helps identify potential conflicts that could lead to costly office actions or total refusal later in the process.

When founders try to file without legal guidance, they often save money upfront but risk higher expenses down the road. A poorly drafted description, an incorrect filing basis, or a missed conflict could lead to office actions that require attorney intervention, additional fees, or even the loss of the application entirely. Working with counsel at the beginning is often the more affordable long-term decision.

Costs After Filing: Office Actions and Responses

Not every trademark proceeds smoothly through the USPTO. An office action is a formal letter from the trademark examiner identifying issues that need to be resolved. These can be procedural or substantive. Procedural issues include missing information or unclear identification of goods and services. Substantive refusals often involve likelihood of confusion or descriptiveness concerns.

When an office action arises, the cost can vary depending on its complexity. Straightforward procedural issues may require minimal attorney time. Substantive refusals demand legal research, argument development, and strategic drafting. The cost to respond can range significantly because no two refusals are the same. This is another reason why hiring an attorney from the start can reduce overall expenses. A strong and carefully prepared application is less likely to draw objections.

Additional Costs Startups Should Consider

Some costs are optional but highly recommended depending on your growth plans. For example, trademark monitoring services help track new filings that might conflict with your brand. This protects not just the registration but your market identity. If someone begins using a similar mark, early detection makes enforcement far easier.

Another cost arises when you file based on intent to use. After approval, you will need to submit proof of use, which includes an additional government filing fee. If you need extra time to show use in commerce, extensions are also available for a fee.

If your brand expands into new product lines or services, you may eventually need additional trademark applications to cover those areas. Many startups begin with a single class and grow into multiple filings as their business evolves.

The Cost of Getting It Wrong

Perhaps the most overlooked cost is the financial impact of mistakes. Filing incorrectly can lead to refusals that result in lost time, lost money, and exposure to risk. A failed trademark means your brand remains vulnerable. Competitors could adopt similar marks, and you could face legal challenges that require rebranding. Rebranding is not just expensive; it can disrupt customer relationships and cause confusion in the marketplace.

Choosing a low cost filing service might seem appealing initially, but these platforms do not provide strategic legal guidance. They simply submit what you provide. If the details are inaccurate or incomplete, the consequences can be far more expensive than hiring a specialized trademark attorney.

Investing in a strong trademark strategy is far more affordable than dealing with the long term cost of an avoidable mistake.

Budgeting With Confidence

When planning for trademark protection, the most common ranges include government fees, professional services, and potential follow up costs. The total investment depends on the number of classes, the complexity of the application, and the level of legal support you choose. The most important part is understanding the long term value of protecting your name, logo, or brand identity. Your trademark is the foundation of your business reputation. It is what customers remember and trust.

At Cohn Legal, PLLC, we believe in flat fee transparency and startup friendly guidance. Your brand deserves reliable protection without unnecessary surprises. Trademark registration is not just another legal formality. It is one of the smartest investments you can make in the long term strength of your business.