Is a Trademark Necessary for Your Small Business?
31 Jul 2024
Is a Trademark Necessary for Your Small Business?
The number of entrepreneurs in the U.S. has surged recently, with small business applications hitting a record high in 2023. As new businesses emerge, securing unique names, phrases, symbols, logos, and designs is crucial. Registering trademarks is an essential step for protecting these elements and setting up a business for long-term success. Trademarks symbolize your business's identity and help consumers distinguish your products and services from competitors. Unlike copyrights, which protect original works of authorship such as music, literature, and art, trademarks safeguard names, slogans, and logos.
A trademark provides recognition and builds a brand's reputation, as exemplified by McDonald’s iconic golden arches. Without federal registration, a trademark might be claimed by others, risking infringement and potential legal issues. Additionally, an unregistered trademark may already exist, leading to accidental plagiarism. To avoid these problems, it’s important to register your trademark promptly. Start by conducting a name search using the USPTO's TESS database to ensure your mark is unique. If available, file a trademark application with the relevant authorities, paying the required fee. Consider using a trademark watch service to monitor potential infringements and track the status of your application.