A trademark application number is a unique eight-digit number that is assigned to a trademark once the application is filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Generally, the eight-digit number is composed of a two-digit series code followed by a six-digit serial number. For instance, if the trademark application number is 99/123456, the series number is “99” while the serial number is “123456.” In some cases, the trademark application number may be referred to simply as a serial number.
It is important to understand the trademark application process in order to fully grasp the significance of trademark application numbers. The first step of the process is filling out the trademark application alongside a professional intellectual property attorney. Once the application is complete, it is sent either via the Internet or by mail to the USPTO. As soon as the trademark office receives the application and determines that you have met the minimum filing requirements, it will be given a trademark application number. You may need to wait a couple of months before receiving your trademark application number. However, once it is assigned, you will need to list the number when corresponding with the USPTO or filing additional documents/
These 8-digit codes can be divided into two parts. The first two-digits are down as the series identifier and are usually determined based on the year the application was filed. For example, the series code “75” is common in trademarks filed on or before October 1st, 1995. Further, the series code “76” generally identifies applications filed on or after March 20th, 2000.
In contrast, the six-digit serial code of a trademark application has less significance. This serial number is generated automatically in chronological order by the USPTO, based on when the application was filed.
While the terms trademark application number and trademark number may seem similar at a first glance, they have completely different meanings. Trademark numbers are only given once the examining attorney at the USPTO has fully approved the trademark. As a result, trademark numbers are useful tools when it comes to determining whether or not a trademark is federally protected.
Since the USPTO deals with thousands of trademark applications on a regular basis, trademark application numbers make it easier for the USPTO to locate and process certain applications. This is why it is important to keep a proper record of your trademark application number throughout the process.
For assistance in applying for a trademark, feel free to reach out to one of our expert intellectual property attorneys today.
