Protecting a brand is one of a business’s most important steps. A trademark (TM) provides exclusive rights over brand names, logos, and symbols, helping a company secure its identity and value in the market. However, applying for a trademark is only the beginning. Monitoring the TM application status is critical to ensure the application proceeds smoothly through the government review system.
At Prip LLC, we have seen many businesses struggle because they fail to check their TM application status regularly. That’s why we created this complete guide. Here, you will learn everything about the TM application status—from how to track it to the stages involved, possible outcomes, and how to handle issues if they arise.
What Does TM Application Status Mean?
The TM application status refers to the current stage of your trademark application as it is examined by the government’s intellectual property office. After you file for a trademark, it does not get registered immediately. Instead, it passes through several checks, each determining whether your mark will eventually be approved.
Checking the TM application status lets you know:
- If your application is under review.
- Whether there are objections.
- If your application has been published for opposition.
- When your trademark has been accepted and registered.
At Prip LLC, we advise clients to monitor their TM application status at least once every month. Small mistakes—like missing an objection reply deadline—can delay registration for years.
Why Checking TM Application Status Is Important
Monitoring your TM application status is not optional; it is essential. Here are the top reasons why:
- Avoid Delays – Many applications get stuck because applicants miss deadlines.
- Identify Objections Early – The trademark office may raise objections regarding similarity with other marks.
- Respond Quickly – Faster responses improve the chances of approval.
- Transparency – Applicants can see exactly where their filing stands.
- Legal Security – Regular monitoring ensures your brand identity is properly secured.
Prip LLC has noticed that applicants who check their TM application status regularly are twice as likely to get faster approvals than those who ignore the process.
Stages of TM Application Status
The TM application status moves through multiple stages. Understanding these stages will help you interpret the meaning of Status.
1. New Application Filed
The first stage begins when you submit your trademark application. The system will generate an application number.
2. Formalities Check Pass/Fail
The trademark office checks if the form is correctly filled out, documents are uploaded, and fees are paid.
3. Marked for Examination
The application is assigned to an examiner who reviews it against trademark laws.
4. Objected
The examiner may object if the mark is too descriptive, offensive, or similar to an existing mark.
5. Accepted & Advertised
If there are no objections—or if objections are resolved—the application is published in the journal for public opposition.
6. Opposed
Any third party can oppose the registration if they believe it infringes on their existing rights.
7. Registered
If no opposition is filed, or if the applicant wins the opposition, the trademark proceeds to registration.
8. Abandoned
The application may be abandoned if deadlines are missed or objections are not replied to.
Each stage will reflect in your TM application status, giving you clear visibility of your trademark’s progress.
How to Check TM Application Status Online
Checking your TM application status online is usually simple. Most government intellectual property websites provide a free online tool.
Steps to check TM application status:
- Visit the official IP office website.
- Enter your application number.
- Submit the search query.
- View the current Status (Filed, Objected, Advertised, Registered, etc.).
At Prip LLC, we often assist clients by regularly monitoring their TM application status. This ensures no step is missed in the process.
Common TM Application Status Updates and Their Meaning
Understanding the exact wording of the TM application status updates is important. Here are common statuses and what they mean:
- New Application – Your application has been received but has not yet been examined.
- Send Back to EDP – There is an error in the application that needs correction.
- Formalities Check Pass – Your documents and fees are in order.
- Formalities Check Fail – Some documents or details are missing.
- Marked for Examination – The application is under review by an examiner.
- Objected – The examiner has raised concerns.
- Accepted & Advertised – The application is published in the trademark journal.
- Opposed – A third party has objected to your mark.
- Registered – Your trademark has been approved and registered.
- Abandoned – The application has been closed due to inaction.
Prip LLC ensures clients fully understand each Status so they can act quickly.
How Long Does the TM Application Process Take?
On average, the trademark registration process can take 12–24 months, depending on objections, opposition, and workload at the IP office. Checking your TM application status regularly helps ensure you are not caught off guard by unexpected delays.
Common Issues with TM Application Status
Even when you file correctly, challenges may arise:
- Objections from Examiner – Similarity with another mark or descriptive nature.
- Opposition from Third Parties – Competitors may file opposition.
- Technical Errors – Missing documents or online system glitches.
- Delays in Review – Heavy workload at the trademark office.
At Prip LLC, we recommend professional legal assistance when handling objections or oppositions, as these are critical to the success of your trademark.
Tips for Smooth Trademark Registration
- Choose a Unique Mark – Avoid generic or descriptive names.
- Hire an Expert – Professionals can reduce errors in filing.
- Reply on time – Always respond to objections within the deadline.
- Monitor Status Regularly – Set reminders to check your TM application status monthly.
- Prepare for Opposition – Be ready with legal arguments if competitors challenge.
Pros & Cons of Monitoring TM Application Status
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ensures timely responses to objections | Requires consistent monitoring |
| Reduces chances of rejection | Can be confusing for first-time applicants |
| Provides transparency in process | Legal language may be hard to understand |
| Improves approval speed | Some updates may take time to reflect online |
| Protects brand identity | May need professional help for complex cases |
Future of TM Application Status Monitoring
The future of trademark monitoring will be AI-driven. Some key trends include:
- AI Alerts – Automatic notifications for status changes.
- Blockchain Security – More secure record-keeping of trademarks.
- Integration with Business Systems – Linking trademark monitoring with CRM and brand management platforms.
Prip LLC believes that businesses using advanced tools to monitor their trademark application status will secure their trademarks faster and more reliably in the years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the TM application status?
It shows the current stage of your trademark application in the registration process.
2. How can I check my TM application status?
Visit the IP office website, enter your application number, and check the result.
3. What does “Objected” mean in TM application status?
It means the examiner has found issues with your application, such as similarity with existing marks.
4. How long does it take for a TM application to get registered?
It usually takes 12–24 months, depending on objections and opposition.
5. What happens if I don’t respond to objections?
Your application may be marked as abandoned.
6. Can a third party oppose my application?
Anyone who feels your mark infringes on their rights can file an opposition.
7. What if my TM application is opposed?
You must file a counter-statement and possibly attend hearings.
8. Does the TM application status show real-time updates?
Most updates are timely, but some may take days to reflect online.
9. Do I need a lawyer to track the TM application status?
Not for tracking, but professional help is recommended if objections or oppositions arise.
10. Does Prip LLC offer trademark registration services?
Prip LLC does not directly register trademarks but provides expert guidance to clients for smooth monitoring and filing.
