So, you’ve finally found the perfect artist name. It reflects your style, your vibe, your creative identity—and maybe people are starting to recognize it online or in the real world.
That’s exciting.
But here’s the thing: if you haven’t trademarked your name yet, you don’t really own it. Anyone else could legally claim it. Seriously.
That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re a painter, musician, digital creator, or photographer, we’re going to walk you through exactly how to trademark your artist name—and how to turn that name into a real, income-generating brand with different tools.
Let’s break it down, step by step.
A trademark is legal protection for your brand name, logo, or slogan. It means you own it—and no one else can legally use it for business.
In creative terms: if you trademark your artist name, you’re telling the world, “Hey, this name is mine. Hands off.”
Once people start associating your name with your art, that name builds real value. A trademark lets you own that value, use it however you want, and protect it from being stolen or copied.
Without one? You’re vulnerable. Someone else could register your name first and even stop you from using it.
Your name is your brand. It’s how people discover you, remember you, and follow your journey. Trademarking it gives you full control over how it’s used—and who can use it.
If someone else registers your name first, you could be forced to change it. That means losing your audience, rebranding everything, and spending big money fixing a preventable problem.
Once you trademark your artist name, you own a piece of intellectual property. That opens the door to licensing deals, partnerships, and other business opportunities that require legal ownership.
Before you trademark anything, make sure the name isn’t already taken.
In the U.S., use the TESS search tool on the USPTO website. Look for your name or any similar-sounding variations in your industry (music, art, merch, etc.).
Other countries have similar tools:
Canada: CIPO
UK: UK IPO
Australia: IP Australia
You also want to check:
Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter/X
Domain availability (like yourname.com)
Platforms like Etsy, Bandcamp, Redbubble, or Spotify
This will help you avoid branding confusion down the line.
If your name is close to another or you’re unsure about the rules, it’s worth consulting a trademark attorney. They can give advice, handle your paperwork, and save you from expensive mistakes.
Here’s the exact process, simplified for busy creatives like you:
This means using both official databases (like USPTO’s) and checking online platforms to make sure your name is truly unique.
Trademarks are organized into “classes” based on the type of product or service. Common classes for artists include:
Class 41 – Entertainment (music, performances)
Class 16 – Printed materials (posters, art prints)
Class 25 – Clothing and merch
Choose the class that fits what you’re doing—or plan to do.
You’ll need:
Your legal name and contact info
The artist name you want to trademark
The class(es) you're applying under
A sample of how you’re using the name (like on a poster, album cover, or website)
In the U.S., you’ll file through USPTO.gov. Expect to pay $250–$350 per class.
A government attorney will review your app. If they need more info, they’ll send an “Office Action.” Just respond as needed. If all goes well, your name gets published for public notice. If no one opposes it, you’re approved.
To keep your trademark active:
File a maintenance doc between years 5 and 6
Renew it every 10 years
Set calendar reminders—this isn’t something you want to forget.