Books, prints and paper goods · usually Class 16 or Class 9
What trademark class are books?
Printed books are Class 16 and e-books and audiobooks are Class 9. One thing to know: the USPTO usually will not register the title of a single book, because a single title is treated as describing the work. A series name or an author or publisher brand is a different matter.
The usual classes
Classes sellers often add
You pay $350 per class, so add a class only for goods or services you actually offer under the name.
Getting the wording right
Knowing the class is half the job. The application also needs a description of your goods in the USPTO's own terms. Wording taken from the USPTO ID Manual costs nothing extra; a custom description adds a $200 per class surcharge. The class finder suggests matching wording from a plain-English description.
Browse Class 16 wording in the USPTO ID ManualWhat filing for books costs
- USPTO fee: $350 per class with an ID Manual description.
- Custom description surcharge: +$200 per class.
- TradeMaker attorney-filed plans: from $149 (Express Filing) or $399 (Basic), plus the USPTO fee.
- Timeline: usually 12–18 months from filing to registration.
Common questions
What trademark class are books?
Books are usually Class 16 (Paper & Print) or Class 9 (Electronics & Software). Printed books are Class 16 and e-books and audiobooks are Class 9. One thing to know: the USPTO usually will not register the title of a single book, because a single title is treated as describing the work. A series name or an author or publisher brand is a different matter.
Do I need more than one class for books?
Only if you sell more than one kind of goods or services under the name. Common additions: Class 41 (online non-downloadable publications, workshops or talks); Class 25 (merch). Each class has its own USPTO fee, so file only for what you actually sell or have a real plan to sell.
How much does it cost to trademark books?
The USPTO fee is $350 per class when the goods or services description comes from the USPTO ID Manual. Writing your own description adds a $200 per class surcharge. TradeMaker's attorney-filed plans start at $149 (Express Filing, one class with ID Manual wording) or $399 (Basic), plus the USPTO fee.
How long does it take to register a trademark for books?
Expect 12–18 months from filing to registration. The USPTO reviews the application, may issue an office action, publishes the mark for opposition, and then registers it.
Where do I find the exact wording for books?
The application has to describe your goods or services in the USPTO's terms. Describe what you sell in the free class finder to see matching classes and wording, or search the USPTO ID Manual for Class 16. Using ID Manual wording avoids the $200 per class custom-description surcharge.
Related products and services
General info, not legal advice. The USPTO decides the final classification.