Trademark applicants and registrants should regularly check their application status to ensure the USPTO is reviewing all submitted documents in a timely manner. A U.S. trademark can move through several stages, including pending examination, publication for opposition, or final registration—each granting the owner exclusive rights within the specified class once approved. Trademark status can be checked free of charge through the USPTO’s Trademark Status and Document Retrieval (TSDR) system using the trademark serial or registration number. Monitoring your trademark status is an essential step after completing the U.S. trademark registration process. This article explains how to check your trademark status in the United States. Auriga Accounting pvt. ltd. offers end-to-end assistance for U.S. trademark registration and related services.
What Is Trademark Status in the U.S.?
Trademark status in the United States refers to the current standing or condition of a trademark within the framework of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It indicates whether a trademark is registered, pending, abandoned, published for opposition, or successfully maintained. Understanding your trademark status is essential for businesses and individuals to protect their intellectual property rights and enforce exclusive use of the mark in commerce.
Why Check Trademark Status?
Monitoring your trademark status is crucial for several reasons:
Responding to Office Actions on Time: USPTO examiners may request additional information or clarification through an Office Action. Responding within the given timeframe (usually three months) is essential to prevent abandonment.
Avoiding Application Abandonment: Failure to meet deadlines for Office Actions or other USPTO requests can lead to abandonment of your application. Regular status checks help you stay on top of these deadlines.
Monitoring Potential Oppositions: After USPTO approval, your trademark is published in the Official Gazette for 30 days. During this period, third parties may file oppositions. Checking status ensures you are aware of any challenges.
Taking Timely Action: By staying informed of USPTO decisions, Office Actions, or oppositions, you can take prompt and informed actions to maintain or defend your trademark.
When to Check Your Trademark Status
During Application Process: Check your application status at least every three to four months from the filing date until registration is issued. Setting up reminders is recommended.
After Registration: For post-registration requirements, such as Declaration of Use (Section 8), Excusable Nonuse, or renewal applications (Section 9), monitor the status at least every six months until the USPTO accepts the submissions.
How to Check Trademark Status in the U.S.
You can easily monitor your trademark’s progress using the USPTO’s Trademark Status and Document Retrieval (TSDR) system.
Step 1: Access the TSDR System
Go to the TSDR portal, where you can view status information and all submitted documents for pending or registered trademarks.
Step 2: Enter Your Identification Number
Use either of the following:
Trademark Serial Number – assigned when filing the application
Trademark Registration Number – if the trademark is already registered
Step 3: Choose Information to View
“Status” Button: Displays a summary of your trademark’s current stage
“Documents” Button: Allows you to review all USPTO filings related to your trademark
Step 4: Review Status Details
Check the “Prosecution History” timeline for all actions related to your application or registration.
Focus on the “Status” field for the most up-to-date information.
Expand headings within the status section for detailed updates.
Step 5: Document Your Check (Optional)
Print or save a copy of the status information
Note the date of your check
Maintaining these records demonstrates diligence in tracking your trademark
Understanding Common Trademark Statuses
Here’s what the key USPTO statuses mean:
Under Examination: A USPTO attorney is reviewing your application. The initial examination usually takes about four months.
Notice of Allowance (NOA): Issued if no oppositions are filed. Your mark is allowed for registration but not yet registered. You have six months to submit a Statement of Use (or request an extension).
Registered: The USPTO officially registers your trademark. You can now use the ® symbol, and no further filings are required until the fifth or sixth year of ownership.
Abandoned: Failure to respond to Office Actions or submit the Statement of Use before deadlines leads to abandonment. The mark loses its legal protection.
Cancelled: A registered trademark may be cancelled if it is not used in commerce for a prolonged period or if successfully challenged.
Published for Opposition: After examiner approval, your mark is published in the Official Gazette for 30 days, allowing third parties to oppose registration.
About the Author
Dakesh
Dakesh breaks down complex legal regulations into clear, actionable guidance, empowering entrepreneurs to stay compliant while confidently growing sustainable, scalable businesses.
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