Other Filings

Renewal | Amendment | Assignment | Cancellation

To assure continuing protection, the application for renewal of a mark must be submitted within the six months immediately preceding the expiration of the mark.  Renewal will continue protection for an additional ten years.

In signing the renewal application, the applicant is verifying that the mark is still in use.  One specimen showing the mark in use in connection with the goods or services must accompany the renewal application. 

Go to Forms & Fees to download or request the application form, determine the fee, and find contact information for submitting the application form.

The law makes no provision for amendment of an existing mark.  If the mark is graphically redesigned but includes the same words or similar symbols as a currently protected mark owned by the same person, file a new application for the new mark, but be certain to reference the existing mark.  Once the new mark is approved, you may either allow the old mark to expire or terminate it immediately.

Assignment

To assign ownership of a mark, the current owner sends a notice of assignment, with the specifics of the mark, the full name and address of the new owner, and a $25 fee to the Secretary of State.  This should be done by letter, preferably on the letterhead of the current owner.  The notice must be signed and notarized.  See Forms & Fees for information about submitting your filing.

Cancellation

The owner of a mark may cancel the registration at any time prior to expiration by sending a notice of cancellation containing the specifics of the registration.  This should be done by letter, preferably on the letterhead of the current owner.  The notice must be signed by the owner and notarized.  The fee for cancellation is $25.  See Forms & Fees for information about submitting your filing.