How much to trademark a name in California?

Trademark registration of a name in California involves various costs and considerations. A breakdown is shown below:

1. State Registration Fees

Filing Fee: There is a filing fee, to be paid to the California Secretary of State, for filing an application to register a trademark or service mark. This fee is per class of goods or services associated with the mark.

2. Federal Registration Fees Optional

Filing Fee with the USPTO: If you want protection nationwide, then it is advisable to register with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The USPTO charges a per-class-of-goods-or-services fee. The total cost depends on how many classes your trademark will fall into.

3. Attorney Fee (Optional but Recommended)

Attorney Fees: You may want to hire a trademark attorney to help you, although it's not required. Trademark attorneys can help you conduct a thorough search, prepare and file your application, and deal with potential legal issues that may arise after your mark has been published. Attorney fees vary according to the individual attorney's expertise and the complication involved in the mark.

4. Additional Costs

Specimen Preparation: You will need to provide a specimen that shows you using your trademark in commerce. The generation or gathering of such specimens will occur at various costs.
Maintenance and Renewal Fees: Trademarks are subject to periodic maintenance. California trademarks are valid for five years and may be renewed within six months before the date of expiration. Renewal will entail additional fees.

5. Considerations

Scope of Protection: A state registration would provide protection for your trademark in California only. You are advised to seek federal registration in order to extend protection beyond California.
Classes of Goods/Services: Trademarks are categorized into classes. There is a different charge for each class you apply to. Proper categorizing of the class or classes your business falls into is important.
Possible Additional Fees and Charges: If there is opposition to your application, or if your application requires amendments, there are additional fees to be paid.

Comprehensive accounting services can cost from $500 to $2,500 per month for a small to mid-sized business in New York. This estimate includes tax preparation services, bookkeeping, payroll, and advisory services.

Smaller businesses with basic needs may see their costs closer to the low end, while those businesses that have complex financial reporting needs or that have a high volume of transactions may see costs at the higher end of this estimate. Businesses can achieve effective financial management with a reasonable budget by judiciously picking only the needed services and, if possible, bundling them together.