Trademarking a Tagline: What You Need to Know

A trademark is a unique identity—like a logo, brand name, symbol, word, or slogan—that distinguishes your goods or services from others in the market. Registering a trademark in India offers your brand legal protection, exclusive rights, and prevents unauthorized use by competitors.

If you're planning to register a trademark, one of the most crucial steps is preparing the correct set of documents. Incomplete or incorrect documentation can result in delays, objections, or even rejection of your application.

This guide explains the documents required for trademark registration in India for different types of applicants—individuals, companies, startups, and others.

more details insides: https://taxkitab.com/trademark-registration/

📌 Who Can Apply for a Trademark?

A trademark application can be filed by:

• Individual / Sole Proprietor

• Partnership Firm / LLP

• Company (Private Limited, OPC, etc.)

• Trust or Society

• Foreign applicants

• Startups / MSMEs

The documentation slightly varies depending on the applicant type.

🧾 Essential Documents Required for Trademark Registration

✅ 1. Trademark Details

• Logo or Word Mark: If you're registering a logo, provide it in JPEG format (max size 200 KB).
  (Note: If it's a word mark only, no logo is needed.)

• Brand Name / Slogan / Tagline: Clearly mention the name or phrase you want to protect.

✅ 2. Applicant's Identity & Address Proof

✅ 3. Proof of Trademark Use (if applicable)

If you're already using the trademark, submit:

• User Affidavit: A signed declaration stating when you first used the trademark.

• Supporting documents: Invoices, brochures, website screenshots, packaging, etc., to show usage.

This is optional if you are applying under “proposed to be used” category.

✅ 4. Power of Attorney (Form TM-48)

• This authorizes a trademark agent or attorney to file the application on your behalf.

• Must be signed by the applicant and submitted in original scanned copy.

✅ 5. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

If filing online (which is standard), a Class 3 DSC is required to sign the application electronically.

💰 Trademark Fee Based on Applicant Type

💡 A startup/MSME certificate can save you 50% on government fees.

📂 Optional Documents (Helpful but Not Mandatory)

• Website or product images displaying the trademark

• Social media handles/screenshots using the mark

• Domain registration proof (if the brand is linked to a website)

• ISO/GST certificate to show legitimacy of business (if applicable)

📤 How to Submit These Documents?

All documents must be uploaded through the official IP India trademark portal:
🔗 https://ipindia.gov.in

• Ensure all scanned documents are clear, signed, and in PDF or JPEG format.

• If applying through an agent, provide a digitally signed Power of Attorney (TM-48).

📌 Quick Checklist: Trademark Registration Documents

📅 How Long Does the Process Take?

If all documents are in order, your trademark application can be filed in 1–2 working days. However, the entire registration process can take 6–18 months, depending on:

• Objections or oppositions raised

• Proper classification and documentation

• Government processing time

✅ Conclusion

Getting your trademark registered is a valuable step in securing your brand’s identity. Having the correct documents ready not only speeds up the process but also reduces the chances of objections or delays.