Statement Of Use Preparation and Filing Services

A Statement of Use (SOU) is a formal document submitted to the USPTO, during the trademark application process. It is used to prove that you have actually started using the trademark in commerce for the goods or services listed in your application.

You don’t have to hire someone to file a Statement of Use (SOU), but many applicants choose to work with a trademark professional. Here’s why:

• Accuracy and Compliance: They ensure the SOU is complete, accurate, and USPTO-compliant, reducing the risk of rejection and speeding up the registration process.
• Specimen Guidance: They can advise whether your evidence qualifies as acceptable use in commerce.

Here’s a step by step guide:

1. Include Application Details

• · Provide your application serial number and the trademark owner’s name.
• · Specify the goods/services covered by the application.

2. Provide Date of First Use

• · Mention the first date you used the mark in commerce for each good/service.
• · Also include the date the mark was first used anywhere, if different.

3. Submit a Specimen

• · Attach evidence showing the mark in use, such as:

1. Product labels or packaging
2. Tags or receipts
3. Website screenshots showing the mark used to sell products/services

4. Include a Declaration

• Sign a statement declaring that:

1.  The mark is in use in commerce for the listed goods/services.
2. The information provided is true and accurate under penalty of perjury.

5. File with USPTO

•  Submit the SOU through the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS).
•  Deadline: Usually within 6 months of the Notice of Allowance, with extensions available.

The filing fee for a Statement of Use (SOU) with the USPTO is $150 per class of goods or services. In case you need additional time to use your mark in commerce, you can request a six-month extension. The filing fee for an extension request is $125 per class.