TrademarksHubThe worldwide trademark network

Guide for brand owners · Portfolio

Trademark renewal and maintenance deadlines

A registration doesn’t last forever on its own. Most countries renew every 10 years, and the US also asks you to prove use. Missed deadlines are one of the most common — and avoidable — ways brands lose their rights.

Never miss a renewal

United States

FilingWhenFee per class
Section 8 declaration of useBetween the 5th and 6th year after registration$325
Section 9 renewal + Section 8Between the 9th and 10th year, then every 10 years$325 each
Grace period6 months after each deadline+$100 surcharge per filing
Section 15 (incontestability, optional)After 5 years of continuous use$250

You must show current use with a specimen for each class. Goods you no longer sell must be deleted.

Other countries

Most offices renew every 10 years from the filing or registration date, with a grace period of about six months for an extra fee. International (Madrid) registrations renew at WIPO every 10 years. See the renewal and grace period table for every country.

If you miss it

In the US the registration is cancelled and you must file a new application. Your common-law rights from use may remain, but you lose the federal benefits. Use a docketing or portfolio management service if you have marks in several countries.

A typical request on TrademarksHub

Example

“A Canadian brand with marks in the US, EU and UK wants one firm to track and file all renewals and the US Section 8 declaration due this year.”

Illustrative example. On TrademarksHub requests are shown as “Private brand owner”, and only firms that cover the chosen countries can reply.

Questions

How often do I renew a US trademark?
Every 10 years, with a Section 8 declaration of use also due between the 5th and 6th year after registration.
Is there a grace period?
Yes, six months after each US deadline, with a $100 surcharge per class.
Can I renew a trademark I no longer use?
In the US you must show current use; unused goods must be deleted, and an unused mark can’t be maintained.