What Is a Trademark and Why Does Your Business Need One?

A trademark is any word, name, symbol, or device used to identify the source of goods or services and distinguish them from others in the marketplace. When you register a trademark with the USPTO, you get exclusive nationwide rights to use that mark in connection with your goods or services.

Without a registered trademark, your rights are limited to the geographic area where you actively do business — a serious limitation for any company operating online or across state lines.

Federal trademark registration gives you the right to use the ® symbol, the presumption of validity in court, the ability to record your mark with U.S. Customs to block infringing imports, and access to federal courts for infringement claims.

The registration process takes 12–18 months on average, which means the best time to file is before you need the protection.