How to Register a Trademark in Massachusetts

Introduction

If you've invested in a new business, it's important that you protect your brand with a trademark. In Massachusetts, there are three steps to getting your trademark registered: choosing the right name, describing it clearly and completely in an application form, and filing all required documents with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO). Once those steps are completed successfully, the USPTO will issue you a certificate of registration that gives you exclusive rights over your chosen mark.

Choose a Trademark

You may have an idea for a trademark, but you need to be sure that it is available. You do not want to spend money on a trademark that cannot be used because it is already registered or too similar in meaning to another mark. You can search the USPTO database at http://tsdr.uspto.gov/. This will allow you to search by class of goods or services, state where your mark will be used, filing date and contact information for the owner of the mark.

Create a Trademark Description

The trademark description should include:
  • The trademark's name.
  • The class of goods or services that the mark is used to identify.
  • The date on which it was first used in commerce, if applicable.

Prepare an Identity Statement

The identity statement is a summary of the most important information about your mark. It should include: The mark's name and any variations or foreign equivalents. The goods or services that the mark is used to identify. Any disclaimers such as "consumable products only" or "not for resale."

Gather the Required Documents

Before you can file your trademark application with the USPTO, you must gather the following:
  • Contact information for the applicant. This is your name and address.
  • A description of the mark. Describe how your design appears on goods or services.
  • A specimen of use (if applicable). If you have already started using your mark publicly, attach a copy of it here.
  • A drawing of such mark as used in connection with each goods or services listed in class heading.
  • Include a statement that such mark is in use in commerce

File the Application Form

The application form is available on the USPTO website. You can also request that it be sent to you by mail. Fill out the form in black ink and make sure that your name, address, phone number and email are all correct. Include a drawing of your mark as used on goods or services (if applicable). The fee for filing a trademark application is $225.

Takeaway

You should file a trademark registration in Massachusetts if you want to protect your brand. It's important to be aware of the different steps that are required when filing a trademark in Massachusetts, and what happens if you don't register your mark within the allotted time period.

Conclusion

Registering a trademark is a great way to protect your brand and help it stand out from the competition.
✖