USPTO Fee Changes 2025: What Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know
The USPTO's new fee structure took effect January 18, 2025. Learn how the $350+ per class fees and new penalties impact your trademark strategy.
Tenicia Moulden, Esq.
The Entrepreneur's Counsel
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) implemented significant fee changes on January 18, 2025, that directly impact how entrepreneurs approach trademark protection. These changes aren't just about higher costs – they fundamentally reshape the strategy for protecting your brand.
Key Fee Changes
The most significant change is the base filing fee, which now starts at $350 per class of goods and services. This represents a substantial increase from previous rates and requires entrepreneurs to be more strategic about their trademark applications.
Additional Fees and Penalties
- Free-form IDs: Using custom descriptions outside the pre-approved list incurs additional fees
- Lengthy descriptions: Identifications over 1,000 characters trigger extra charges
- Multiple class applications: Each additional class adds $350 to your filing
Strategic Implications
These changes encourage applicants to:
- Use pre-approved goods and services descriptions from the USPTO ID Manual
- Be concise and specific in your applications
- Consider whether you truly need protection in multiple classes
Cost-Saving Strategies
While the fees have increased, smart planning can minimize your costs:
- Start with core classes: Focus on the classes most critical to your business
- Use standard descriptions: Stick to pre-approved language to avoid free-form fees
- Bundle strategically: If you need multiple marks, consider timing to maximize efficiency
Why This Matters for Your Business
Trademark protection is more expensive but also more important than ever. With the rise of e-commerce and digital brands, protecting your intellectual property is crucial for:
- Preventing competitor confusion
- Building brand value
- Attracting investors who want to see protected IP
- Creating sellable business assets
Next Steps
Don't let these fee increases deter you from protecting your brand. Instead, work with experienced counsel to develop a strategic approach that maximizes protection while managing costs. The investment in proper trademark protection pays dividends through enhanced brand value and business security.