The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has announced significant fee updates effective January 2025. These changes will impact trademark applications, patent filings, and other essential processes. Staying informed about these updates can help you plan your intellectual property (IP) strategy wisely and avoid unnecessary costs. 
Key Updates to Trademark Fees (Effective January 18, 2025)
Here are some of the key changes to keep in mind:
- Application Fees:
- A new base application fee of $350 per class will apply.
- Additional surcharges will be introduced for applications missing key information or using custom descriptions of goods/services:
- $100 per class for incomplete applications.
- $200 per class for custom descriptions of goods/services.
- Post-Registration Maintenance Fees:
- Section 9 renewal fees will increase from $300 to $325 per class.
- Section 8 declarations will rise from $225 to $325 per class.
- Petitions and Letters of Protest:
- Petition to the Director fees will increase from $250 to $400.
- Letters of protest will rise from $50 to $150.
These updates make it more important than ever to submit complete and accurate filings. I’m happy to help you navigate these changes and ensure your applications avoid unnecessary costs.
Key Updates to Patent Fees (Effective January 19, 2025)
The USPTO is also adjusting patent fees. Here are some highlights:
- Filing, Search, and Examination Fees:
- A 10% increase in costs for front-end patent filings.
- Information Disclosure Statement (IDS) Fees:
- Tiered fees will apply for references submitted:
- $200 for 51–99 references.
- $500 for 100–199 references.
- $800 for 200+ references.
- Tiered fees will apply for references submitted:
- Excess Claims Fees:
- A 25% increase in costs for each independent claim beyond three.
- A 25% increase in costs for each claim beyond 20.
- Request for Continued Examination (RCE):
- A 10% increase in costs for the First RCE and 43% increase in costs for the subsequent RCEs.
If you have plans to file, renew, or modify any patent applications, I recommend getting started now to take advantage of current rates.
What About Micro Entities?
Micro entities will continue to benefit from discounted fees, but the percentage increases will still apply. If you qualify as a micro entity, consider strategies to minimize expenses while ensuring your IP filings stay on track. Explore our patent services here.
Why You Should Act Now
Delaying filings or renewals until after these fee increases could lead to significantly higher costs. Whether you’re filing a new trademark, pursuing a patent, or maintaining existing IP, early action can save time, money, and stress.
Next Steps for Businesses and Inventors
- Review your IP portfolio: Identify trademarks and patents requiring updates or renewals.
- Plan new filings: Start applications now to lock in current fees.
- Consult with an attorney: Navigate these changes confidently with professional guidance.
USPTO Fees and Legal Fees: What’s the Difference?
It’s important to differentiate between USPTO fees and legal fees:
- USPTO Fees: Paid directly to the USPTO for filing, examination, and maintenance of patents or trademarks.
- Legal Fees: Charged by attorneys for professional services, including drafting applications, conducting searches, and responding to office actions.
Understanding these distinctions ensures a clear budgeting strategy for your IP needs. Learn more about patent and trademark costs here.
Conclusion
The 2025 USPTO fee updates emphasize the importance of proactive IP management. By staying informed and acting early, businesses and inventors can optimize their strategies, minimize costs, and maintain strong IP protection. Whether you’re filing a trademark, pursuing a patent, or planning international IP expansion, Innovent Law is here to help.
👉 Contact us today to discuss how these changes impact your intellectual property goals and how we can help you navigate them effectively.