Can we reserve a trademark for our product?

Question

We are developing our MVP right now and would like to know if there's a way to reserve the trademark rights. As the product is not launched yet and we are not yet a legal entity, we don't really want to go through the whole process of trademark registration right now. Is there a way to "reserve" a name and go through the process later?

Answers: 2 public & 1 private

25da12c4d3
Patent Attorney

You may file an intent-to-use application for the mark (Section 1(b)) and file a Statement of Use once you are actually using the mark in commerce. It is still "part of the process," however, and your intent-to-use application will be examined like an in-use (Section 1(a)) application will be.

Your State, or even local commerce agencies, will also have trade name reservations and registration schemes. Before forming an entity, buying a domain, or engaging in other branding activity, you should consult with local trademark counsel.

2c4bd8c722
IP Consultant

In the United States the name is technically reserved to the business who first starts using the trademark. Yet it is worth noting that if you start using the trademark before than someone who actually filed it would mean a long & expensive legal process to get it back. I recommend, before buying domains; incorporating you business or starting to market your products, you start a trademark application. It is not an expensive process - our fees start at $520 all inclusive - and will save you lots of headaches in the future.
If you have any questions note I can offer you advise for free - no strings attached.

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