How to Check Your Trademark Status
Once you’ve submitted your trademark application, you might wonder: Now what? Fortunately, the USPTO provides an online tool that lets you follow your application every step of the way. It’s called the Trademark Status and Document Retrieval system, or TSDR.
As soon as your application is filed, you’ll receive a serial number. That number is your access key. Head to the TSDR portal, enter the serial number, and you can:
- Check your application’s current status
- Download official USPTO documents
- See if you have any upcoming deadlines, such as for the Statement of Use or application renewal.
Keep in mind that new documents may not appear right away. Normally, a new application shows up in TSDR within 4–5 days, but during busy periods, it may take 60–80 days or more to appear.
How Long the Process Will Take?
You can also check the USPTO’s posted processing times for each stage of the application. These timelines vary depending on volume and filing accuracy. View current wait times for everything from initial review to post-registration steps. It’s a smart way to set expectations and avoid frustration.
Even better? Filing your application correctly—and responding promptly to any requests—can help speed things along. The USPTO even provides tips for avoiding delays.
The USPTO recommends these strategies to help avoid delays:
Use the USPTO ID Manual
Choose pre-approved goods/services from the ID Manual to ensure proper classification and reduce office actions.Respond Quickly
Reply to any USPTO requests or office actions as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing.Use the Correct TEAS Fields
Always enter your responses in the designated fields on the TEAS form to ensure proper handling.Contact Your Examining Attorney
For minor issues, reach out directly to your assigned attorney with clear instructions—it can speed up resolution.
Why Status Tracking Isn’t Enough
The TSDR system is great for checking where your trademark application is in the process—but it won’t tell you why things are delayed, whether your name might face legal obstacles, or if your trademark is even likely to be approved. That’s where comprehensive trademark research becomes essential—and it should happen before you file.
Many first-time filers assume a quick USPTO search is enough. It’s not. A solid trademark search dives much deeper, helping uncover possible conflicts that could block your registration.
A complete search includes:
- Federal trademarks already filed or registered with the USPTO
- State-level registrations, which won’t show up in the federal system
- Common law uses, such as business names found on websites, in directories, press coverage, and more
- International trademarks, if you plan to sell or expand outside the U.S.
Even if a name looks “available” in TSDR or the USPTO search tool, another business could already be using it in a way that creates legal risk. Skipping this research step can lead to refusals, oppositions, or costly rebranding—all of which can delay or derail your business plans.
After Your Trademark Registers
Want peace of mind with your trademark?
At TradeMark Express, we offer comprehensive trademark research and help with application prep—so you’re not left guessing. Let us help you start strong and stay protected. Reach out today to get started.
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