Q: How long is a trademark valid in the USA for an existing owner?
I'm looking to understand how long a trademark is valid in the USA, specifically for one that I currently own.
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A: As long as you use it, for the goods or services for which you use it.
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A: A trademark can last in perpetuity as long as the mark continues to be used in commerce. There are some brands that have had rights in their marks for hundreds of years.
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A:
In the United States, trademark registrations can last indefinitely as long as you continue to use the mark and fulfill certain maintenance requirements. Initially, your federal trademark registration is valid for ten years. However, between the fifth and sixth years after registration, you must file a Declaration of Use and/or Excusable Nonuse (Section 8 filing) to keep it active. This ensures the trademark is still in use in commerce.
At the end of the initial ten-year period, you’ll need to file another Section 8 declaration, along with a Renewal Application (Section 9 filing), to extend your trademark for an additional ten years. If you continue to meet these requirements every ten years, your trademark will remain valid indefinitely.
It’s important to track these deadlines and keep records showing that your trademark is actively used in commerce. Staying on top of these filings and maintaining consistent use of your mark is the key to keeping your trademark registration valid for the long term.
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