What is the difference between the TM, SM, and ® symbols?
The TM symbol is used by parties claiming rights to particular trademarks. The trademark symbol may be used next to their marks at any time – even prior to filing a trademark application. The SM symbol may be used by a party claiming such right to a service mark. The party may similarly use either the TM or the SM symbol. Registration is not necessary to use these particular symbols. The ® symbol indicates that the trademark is a valid U.S. federally registered trademark. In general, it is not permissible to use the ® symbol in the U.S. unless you have a valid U.S. federally registered trademark. In addition, merely filing a trademark application is not enough, one must wait until the trademark successfully completes the entire registration process before using the ® symbol.
The TM symbol is used by parties claiming rights to particular trademarks. The trademark symbol may be used next to their marks at any time – even prior to filing a trademark application. The SM symbol may by used by a party claiming such right to a service mark. The party may similarly use either the TM or the SM symbol. Registration is not necessary to use these particular symbols. The « symbol indicates that the trademark is a valid U.S. federally registered trademark. In general, it is not permissible to use the ® symbol in the U.S. unless you have a valid U.S. federally registered trademark. In addition, merely filing a trademark application is not enough, one must wait until the trademark successfully completes the entire registration process before using the ® symbol.
