Why symbols matter
A small symbol placed next to a name or logo tells the public what kind of protection you are claiming. The circled R (®) shows that a trademark is registered, while other symbols are used for copyrights and patents. A symbol does not change whether your registration is valid. Still, it is best to use ® or © every time you mention your intellectual property in print, because these symbols give you legal grounds to claim damages in trademark disputes. You can use the symbols below on your website, in written content, and in marketing materials.
The most common symbols
- TM (trademark): Marks a name or logo as an unregistered trademark for one of 34 product categories. Owners add it to say the name or logo is their product's trademark.
- SM (service mark): Works like TM, but the claim covers a service (one of 11 service categories) instead of a physical product.
- ®: Reserved for marks that are already registered, whether trademarks or service marks. It shows that the relevant authority has approved the registration.
- ©: Identifies copyrighted material, and you can use it whether or not the copyright is registered. The notice should read Copyright ©, then the creation date, the owner's name, a period, and "All Rights Reserved." For example: Copyright © 2021, John Smith. All Rights Reserved.
- Patent Pending: This phrase means a patent application has been filed, but approval is not yet guaranteed.