Trademark renewal is a procedure for legally continuing the protection time duration of a trademark registration after its original validity. This time duration is usually extended by submitting a trademark renewal application to the concerned trademark registry before the expiration date of a trademark.

Here is the list of important documents that are needed to start your trademark renewal process –

• Completed Trademark Renewal Application Form (TM-R)
• Copy of the Originally Filed Trademark Application Form (TM-A)
• Copy of the Trademark Registration CertificatePower of Attorney (when an authorized representative or agent represents the applicant).
• Identity and Address proof of the Applicant

Here, some of the major benefits are mentioned that an individual receives through a trademark renewal –

• Protects Brand Protection: A trademark renewal assures that your brand name or trademark will get legal protection for an additional ten years in India. It prohibits competitors from misleading your customers with similar marks for a fixed time i.e. ten years.
• Prevents Loss of Exclusive Rights: Neglecting the renewal process may cease your trademark registration, and thus you will be deprived of exclusive rights to access your brand. This encourages other parties to register similar trademarks as yours, decreasing your brand identity and creating difficulties in the marketplace.
• Allows Legal Action:  In case of trademark infringement, a renewed trademark helps to make your legal side even more stronger. With a valid registration, you are facilitated to take legal action against the unauthorized access of your trademark and safeguard your brand reputation.
• Additional Licensing and Franchising: A renewed trademark allows you to get additional licenses or connect with other brands that excellently generate additional revenue options. It also creates trust among licensing partners or franchisees about your brand and its legal protection.
• Sustain Brand Value: When a trademark is regularly it indicates a well-established brand that is focused on protecting its brand identity. Trademark renewal increases brand value and customer trust for your products and services.

• According to the Trademark Rules 2017, section 57 and 58 states that a trademark renewal can be filed within a year to the expiry date of the trademark.
• The renewal is also permitted within the six months from the expiry date of the trademark , as per the sections 63 and 64 in Trade Mark Rules 2002.

To execute the process of trademark renewal, you should follow the below-mentioned steps –

• Prepare Your Documents
  • Carefully prepare and examine your trademark registration papers and check the current status of your selected trademark.
  • Identify the potential trademark issues at early stage.
•  Know Your Due dates
  • Be alert that trademark renewal due dates mostly differ by jurisdiction.  
  • Keep advance reminders to avoid the chances of missing any important dates.
• Draft the Renewal Application
  • On the appropriate trademark renewal forms, enter all the relevant details carefully.
  • Ensure to check that all provided information is accurate.
•  Pay the Necessary Fees
  • Always ensure that you know the appropriate renewal amount as per your jurisdiction.
  • A prompt payment is required to complete the trademark renewal process.
• Evidence of Use (if needed)
  • At Some regions, it is required to provide the proof that your trademark is still actively used by you.
  • Collect all supporting necessary documents to show the trademark status’ Active’ and its continued use in market.
• Declaration of trademark access
  • In those jurisdictions that require a declaration of trademark access, submit a declaration stating that your trademark is actively engaged in connection with your specific products and services.
• Update trademark information
  • If there are any changes in your trademark such as in contact or ownership details,then update the required information in your trademark records.
  • Regularly check that your trademark details remain updated and accurate.
• Take Professional Assistance
  • In case of any difficulty or confusion, you can consult with an intellectual property professional for legal support.
  • Their experience will help you clarify any legal confusion and resolve those issues during the renewal process.
• Stay Organized and Proactive
  • Always keep a well-maintained record of all documents and renewal-related correspondence for avoiding any complexities.
  • A proactive approach can simplify the process, lower management burdens, and provides a legal protection to your trademark.