In order to research and/or file an application to register a trademark with the USPTO, go to www.uspto.gov and mouse over the trademark link, and select searching trademarks. Next click on Search our trademark database and then under the Select A search option, click on Basic Word Mark Search. Enter the word mark and a list of applications and registered trademarks that are identical and similar to the input will show up. These will be files that are both either LIVE or DEAD, meaning that the file is still currently active or deactivated. In order to apply for a trademark online, follow the same steps as before except this time click on Apply online from the drop-down menu. From the Apply Online section, click on #1 Initial Application forms, and then on Start your application in TEAS. At this point, you will be required to verify your identity via your email address through a Two-Step verification process, of which you will be required to set up your first time filing.

1. Select TEAS Plus or Standard, in order to use TEAS Plus you must maintain all contact with USPTO via email only and the list of goods or services must be in the ID Manual. If later in the application process the examiner determines that you have not adhered to these requirements, you will have to pay an additional $100 per class of goods or services to file under the TEAS Standard option.
2. Select “NO” as there is no attorney filing the application, but rather yourself as an “Unrepresented” applicant.
3. Is only selected if you saved an incomplete application and are going to resume the filing at a later time. Click “Continue”
4. APPLICANT INFORMATION It’s very important that you select the correct entity type because if you file under the wrong one, the error is fatal and cannot be corrected or amended and you won’t get a refund. After entering your information click “Continue”
5. MARK INFORMATION You will select either “Standard Character”, “Special Form” or “Sound Mark”. If you do not have a logo with the mark or stylized lettering, select Standard Character, then input the name in the box below. A special form selection requires more detailed information. The “Additional Statement” box is only necessary if you are claiming ownership of prior registrations, need to provide a translation of the mark in another language, provide the consent of a living individual’s name or a concurrent use claim of the name with another applicant or registrant. Click continue.
6. GOODS/SERVICES INFORMATION Click on “Add Goods/Services and input each individual description of the goods or service and select and insert them in separately. After inserting each good or service continue
7. FILING BASIS Select either “Section 1A” if you are currently using the goods or services in interstate commerce and have proof of this use to upload from your computer, give a description of the specimen, and the dates of first use anywhere and in interstate commerce. If your specimen of use is from your website or social media platform, you must provide the URL of the page and the dates of access. Select “Section 1B” if you intend to use the mark in the future after the application process and procedures are completed. This selection will require additional filings and an extra payment later in the application process. After you receive the NOA “Notice of Allowance” you will have to file an Allegation of Use within the next 6 months after the NOA. You will have 3 years after the NOA and will have to file an extension every 6 months at an additional $125 per extension.
8. CORRESPONDENCE INFORMATION Ensure that your name and email address is correct.
9. DECLARATION Read and acknowledge each statement by checking each box, insert your electronic signature, date name, and validate the application.
10. IMPORTANT NOTICE. Check the box and Pay/Submit. The United States Patent and Trademark Office, Home page of the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s main website.