What can I trademark?
The US Patent and Trademark Office allows essentially anything that distinguishes a brand to be trademarked. This includes names, logos, slogans, and even scents and colors. For example, Tiffany & Co. has trademarked their signature blue. Basically, anything that is not generic and distinguishes you or your brand can be trademarked. Social media handles are an important part of branding and can also be trademarked.
Why should I trademark my social media handle?
Influencers use their social media handles to set apart their brand from other content creators. It is important for content creators and influencers to protect their brand online from any imitation. Trademarking your social media handle gives you official ownership of it and provides legal protection against anyone trying to copy your name or brand. Registering your handle as a trademark is the best way to protect yourself and your brand from infringement online. Additionally, trademarking your social media accounts creates the potential for additional revenue. By registering your handle as a trademark, you are creating an intellectual property asset that can be sold or licensed. Basically, because you own that name, any brand or company that wants to use it would need a license.
How do I trademark my social media handle?
Trademarks are registered with the US Patent and Trademark Office. The PTO application divides marks into different classes depending on how the mark has been used in the past and will be used. An attorney can help you to complete the application and research other registered trademarks to ensure there are not any trademarks in use that are too similar. The PTO will review trademark applications to ensure that the name or mark is distinguishable from others and distinctive to the brand. The PTO will reject any application that is too generic or too similar to another trademark to prevent consumer confusion.
