When and How to Amend a Registered Trademark?

A trademark protects your brand and is an important business asset. So, it is necessary to ensure that the trademark is correctly registered. If there need to be any changes after application, you can do so by following the procedure below.

Overview

Trademark registration online is a lengthy process that takes around a year. One has to make sure that everything submitted for registration is error-free so that you can enjoy proper trademark protection. That is why many businesses prefer to register their trademark through Vakilsearch’s experts. Know How to Amend a Registered Trademark in this blog!

In case you want to amend or correct your trademark after applying, you can do so. Read the article carefully to understand the process.

Authority For Altering Trademarks

Under the Trademarks Act, it is the Controller-General of Patents Filings, Designs & Trademarks who is the Registrar for Trademarks. An aggrieved applicant has to apply to the Registrar to make amends to the application.

Application for an Amendment or Correction Can Be Given

1. In case there is an error in the name, address, or description of the registered proprietor of the trademark
2. To enter any change in name, address, or description of the person who is registered as the proprietor of the trademark. This happens when the trademark owned by one person is assigned to another person or company
3. To change the classification of goods, for example, a trademark for the general class of textiles may be incorrectly filed under the classification ‘industrial equipment’. The Registrar may also ask an applicant to file a correction suo moto 
4. Registrar may also suggest the deletion of a class that doesn’t correspond to the goods or services of the applicant 
5. If the figurative elements of the trademark are not classified according to the Vienna Code 
6. If the mark closely resembles another mark, including a misspelling of a word (xtra for extra) 
7. For cancellation of the entry of a trademark
8. To remove any goods or classes of goods or services for which the trademark has been registered. For example, a company may exit a segment of its business, and therefore, a TM may not apply to those goods and services of the company
9. To make minor cosmetic changes in the TM granted
10. For updating details missed out by you during the application, such as submission of names and addresses of all partners, translation of the mark, and remedying errors in classifying goods. To do this, Form TM-16 needs to be filed. 

Correction in the Certificate of Registration

1. For minor errors in the certification of registration: The appropriate form for correction can be filed with a copy of the certificate of registration. Once corrected, a new certificate of registration would be sent to the applicant or their authorized agent. 
2. For major errors in the certificate of registration: Examples of major flaws in the registration certificate are the wrong publication of marks, incorrect classification of goods/services, etc. In such a scenario, a proceeding will be initiated under Section 57(4) of the Act, by the Tribunal. 

Process for Correction in the Trademark – Things to Keep in Mind

After the appropriate form has been registered along with the fee and supporting documents, the following details will also be examined – 

1. Whether the trademark is valid 
2. Whether the person applying for the correction or amendment is the registered proprietor of the mark or has valid title to the mark 
3. In case of amendment arising out of the assignment of the mark, whether the assignment deed has a sign, stamp, and duly executed
4. If there exist disputes regarding the title or ownership of the TM, an affidavit can be filed by either party.

So keep these things in mind while filing for correction and try to make everything clear in the application itself to ensure that the process goes smoothly.

Alteration of a Registered Trademark

After you’ve received your certificate of registration, you can still submit an alteration that doesn’t substantially affect the identity of the TM. In such a scenario, the Registrar may advertise the altered TM (if need be). If within the time frame, an opposition is filed to such alteration, the Registrar would consider that before deciding whether to allow alteration in your mark. 

Using the free Trademark Search engine provided by Vakilsearch, you can determine whether a trademark is accessible before beginning the registration process.

Here’s a quick summary of the forms you may have to file for altering a trademark. This is for:

• Minor changes in name or description of the registered proprietor – Form TM 33 
• Changing the name of the proprietor of the mark altogether – Form TM 23/24 
• Changes in the address of the registered proprietor – Form TM 34 
• Cancelling a registered trademark – Form TM 35 
• Striking out any or some of the goods or services – Form TM 36 
• Changes in classification – Form TM 40
• Alteration in a registered trademark – Form TM 38

Permitted Alterations or Amendments

If the proprietor’s name or address on the trademark label changes, adjustments or amendments are permitted. Changing the address of the trademark is not crucial. Adding ‘limited’ to a company’s name is acceptable. 

If a signature represents the company’s name, no alterations are allowed. The registrar may advertise the change in the journal if necessary. Opposition to alterations can be submitted using form TM-39, stating the basis for objections. 

The registrar will notify the proprietor and others, allowing for a counterstatement on form TM-6. Rules 50 to 57 outline the process for further opposition. If no counter statement is filed or there’s a delay, the registrar will decide whether to allow it after hearing from the proprietor. The changed trademark will then be published in the Trade Marks Journal.

How to Register a Trademark Error-Free?

While there are ways to correct your trademark application, it is better to ensure that you get it right the first time. If not, it can result in a considerable delay in your application being processed. Apply for a trademark online through Vakilsearch will ensure that your application is submitted error-free. We collect the required documents from you and our experts verify them before moving on to applying. Register your trademark in 3 simple steps now.

Frequently Asked Questions  

How can I amend a registered trademark in India?

You can amend a registered trademark in India by filing Form TM-P through the IP India portal, along with required documents and applicable fees.

What trademark details can be amended after registration?

You can amend details like the owner’s name, address, trademark description, or class. Substantive changes to the trademark itself are generally not allowed.

Which form is used for trademark amendment in India?

Form TM-P is used for amending a registered trademark in India, including changes to ownership details, address, or conditions of use.

How much does it cost to amend a trademark?

In India, the amendment fee is ₹900 for physical filing and ₹1,000 for online filing via the IP India portal.

Can I change the trademark name after registration?

Changing the trademark name is not allowed as it alters the identity of the mark. Only minor corrections or rectifications are permitted.