What Web-site can I get free copyright forms for a logo or symbol?

Question

I'm a new apparel designer and was told I can get free copyright forms from the Internet, does anyone have an idea which web-site that is?

Answer 1

You can't copyright either a logo or a symbol. But you can apply for a registered trademark for either.

You can do this by going to the US Government Office Of Patients And Trademarks (I'm not sure if this is the right name for it.) Do a Yahoo search for trademarks and they'll direct you there.

Or you can pick up the forms in person from any regional US Government Office. Also, most larger US Post Offices carry the forms and will gladly hand them to you if you ask.

Answer 2

You wouldn't copyright it. Copyrights can be obtained for things of an artistic nature. This includes, of course, poetry, films, sculptures, music, fiction, etc. But can also include things that may not necessarily seem "artistic" in the general sense of the word. Copyrights can also be obtained for advertising copy, games, software programs and blueprints, to name just a few.

To protect a business name and/or logo within your industry, you would apply for a trademark.

Trademarks can be names of products or services, logos, slogans, packaging and even sounds and smells. In essence, a trademark can be almost anything that is used to identify a particular product or service. Registering a trademark grants the owner exclusive rights to the mark within the specified industry.

Of course, it's necessary to research the mark comprehensively prior to filing to ensure that there is no possibility of infringing upon another party.

This entails searching the pending & registered Federal and State trademark files as well as the US National Common-Law files. Then, if clear, you can decide if you would like to file for a Federal or a State trademark.

To register a trademark, contact either your Secretary of State for a State trademark or the US Patent & Trademark Office for a Federal trademark.

If you are only conducting business in one state, then a State trademark is most appropriate. If you conduct business in at least 2 states OR between the US & any other country, you can file for a Federal trademark.

The USPTO & the Secretary of State's do have forms accessible online for free but registering is NOT free. The State fees vary, anywhere from $10 to $125 per International Class. The USPTO charges $325 per International Class.

I posted some links that should assist you further. Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!