Why search for similar trademarks?
One of the most common reasons applications are rejected is because the applied-for trademark is too similar to an already registered one and there’s alikelihood of confusion. This means customers are likely to think your goods or services come from the same source as another party’s goods or services. Before you apply to register a trademark, conduct aclearance search to see if someone else already registered that trademark or a similar one.
A comprehensive clearance search typically involves searching our trademark databaseof federally registered and applied-for trademarks, state trademark databases, and the internet. Although the trademarkexamining attorney assigned to your application will also conduct a search, they will only determine whether there are conflicting trademarks in our federal database. It's your responsibility to search state trademark databases and the internet.
Although it can seem overwhelming, completing these searches before you file can help you avoid costly and time-consuming issues with your trademark application. Learn more abouthow to search our trademark database.