How to Trademark Your Business Name Online (Step-by-Step 2026)

 How to Trademark Your Business Name Online: 2026 Guide & Costs

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Legal Disclaimer: Trademark law is complex; we recommend consulting with a licensed trademark attorney before filing. We are an educational resource, not a law firm.

 

In the digital economy of 2025 and 2026, your business name is your most valuable intangible asset. However, simply comparing top legal providers for an LLC does not give you national rights to your brand. To truly "shield" your identity from competitors, you must secure a federal trademark through the USPTO.

📊 2026 Trademark Filing Cost Comparison (Post-Jan 2025 Fee Hikes)

On January 18, 2025, the USPTO implemented sweeping fee changes. The budget-friendly "TEAS Plus" ($250) was replaced by a flat $350 base fee.

Service Type	Avg. Service Fee	Federal Filing Fee (per class)	Total Est. Cost
DIY (USPTO Direct)	$0	$350 - $550	$350+
Bizee (Incfile)	$299	$350	$649
LegalZoom	$649+	$350	$999+

Step 1: Conduct an AI-Powered Trademark Search

In 2026, "exact match" searches are insufficient. The USPTO rejections often happen due to "phonetic" or "conceptual" similarities.

• The Solution: Use AI search tools. Services like LegalZoom now use machine learning to scan for sounds-alike names across 190+ registries to ensure your brand won't face an "Office Action" rejection.

Step 2: Identify Your "International Classes"

Trademarks are protected within specific categories. If you protect your IT consulting business, you likely file under Class 42 (Computer & Software Services). Note that the $350 USPTO fee is per class.

Step 3: Choose Your Filing Basis (Use vs. Intent)

• Section 1(a) "Use in Commerce": You are already selling products under this name. You must provide a "specimen" (like a website screenshot).
• Section 1(b) "Intent to Use": You haven't launched yet but want to "lock in" the name. This requires an extra $150 fee later when you prove actual use.

🛡️ Why Trademarking is the Ultimate "Shield"

While an LLC protects your personal assets, a trademark protects your market exclusivity. Without it, a competitor in another state could use your name, and you would have no legal standing to stop them nationally.

Secure Your Brand Name

Don't let a squatter take your name. 

[Start Your Trademark Search with LegalZoom] [Register Your Trademark for $299 with Bizee]