How Long Does a Trademark Last? (Duration & Renewals)

A federal trademark can last forever — but only if you maintain it. Here are the deadlines you must meet to keep your trademark active.

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Quick answer: A federal trademark can last indefinitely as long as you keep using it in commerce and file the required maintenance documents on time. You must file a Section 8 declaration of use between years 5 and 6, a combined Section 8 and 9 renewal between years 9 and 10, and renew every 10 years after that. Miss a deadline and your trademark can be cancelled. SecureMark USA helps you file and renew.

How long protection lasts

Unlike patents and copyrights, a trademark has no fixed expiration date. As long as you continue using the mark in commerce and file the required maintenance documents, your federal registration can last indefinitely.

The maintenance deadlines you must meet

Between years 5 and 6, you file a Section 8 declaration confirming the mark is still in use. Between years 9 and 10, you file a combined Section 8 & 9 renewal. After that, you renew every 10 years. Each filing has its own USPTO fee.

What happens if you miss a deadline?

If you miss a maintenance filing (even within a short grace period with extra fees), the USPTO can cancel your registration. You would then lose your registered rights and may have to start over with a new application.

Keeping your mark active

The simplest way to protect your registration is to track your deadlines and file on time. SecureMark USA offers renewal notification and filing support so you never miss a critical date. Learn about trademark renewals.

Keep your trademark active

SecureMark USA tracks your maintenance deadlines and files your Section 8, Section 9, and 10-year renewals so your registration never lapses.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does a trademark last?

A federal trademark can last indefinitely as long as you keep using it in commerce and file the required maintenance documents on time.

When do I need to renew my trademark?

File a Section 8 declaration between years 5–6, a combined Section 8 & 9 renewal between years 9–10, and renew every 10 years after that.

What happens if I miss a renewal deadline?

The USPTO can cancel your registration. You would lose your registered rights and may have to file a new application.

Does a trademark ever expire?

Not if maintained. A trademark only ends if you stop using it or fail to file the required maintenance documents.

Can SecureMark USA handle my renewals?

Yes. SecureMark USA offers renewal notifications and filing support to keep your trademark active.

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