How to Check Copyright Names

Instructions

• 1). Go to http:// www.uspto.gov/ and click on the “Search Marks” found under the Trademarks heading.
  
  
• 2). To select a search form click on one of the following links: New User Form Search (Basic), Structured Form Search (Boolean), Free Form Search (Advanced Search), Browse Dictionary (View Indexes) or Search OG Publication Date or Registration Date.
  
  
• 3). Type in the name you are checking in the “Search Term” box.
  
  
• 4). Make a selection from the options in the dropdown menu listed under “Field” or select “All” to include all the available options.
  
  
• 5). Click on “Submit Query.” If the name is under a trademark copyright it will show up on a list that includes the name, also referred to as the “Word Mark,” the serial number, registration number, and the term “Live/ Dead.” If the name is “Live” that means the trademark is in effect and it should not be used by anyone else. If the name or word mark is “Dead” then it is no longer under a trademark copyright protection.