What Does TM Mean?
TM stands for “trademark” and can be used by anyone to signal that a name, logo, or phrase is being claimed as a trademark. You don’t need to register with the USPTO to use it. It tells the world: “Hey, this is mine. Please don’t copy it.”
🔹 Use it when claiming ownership but haven’t registered your mark yet. This is particularly useful during the early stages of your brand, especially if you’re still in the process of applying for a federal trademark. It gives you common law rights, which can still be powerful depending on where and how you use the brand.
What Does SM Mean?
SM stands for “service mark” and works just like TM, but it’s specifically used for services rather than products. If you run a business that offers services (like consulting, coaching, or legal services), you can use SM to claim ownership of your brand name or slogan, even if you haven’t registered it yet.
🔹 Use SM for service-based businesses to show you’re claiming rights to your name, logo, or tagline.
What Does ® Mean?
The ® symbol stands for “registered trademark” and can only be used after your mark has been officially registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
🔹 It’s illegal to use ® unless your trademark is federally registered. This symbol carries more weight than TM. It tells competitors (and potential copycats) that your rights are not just claimed — they’re secured under federal law.
So Which One Should You Use? Use TM while your application is pending or relying on common law rights. Use SM if you’re in the service industry and haven’t registered yet. Use ® only after the USPTO has approved and registered your mark.
At R.J. Pierce Law Group, we help clients move from the “TM” or “SM” phase to proudly use the ® symbol—a journey that involves thorough research, strategic filing, and legal follow-through.
Need Help Navigating Your Symbols? We’re here for you. At R.J. Pierce Law Group, we don’t just file trademarks—we build brand security strategies that grow with your business. Ready to go from TM or SM to ®?
Book a consultation with our team today!
