Cardi B tried and failed to have her signature phrase “Okurrr” trademarked. But fellow rapper Megan Thee Stallion also filed to trademark “Hot Girl Summer,” a term she popularized thanks in part to her album, “Fever” and her song “Hot Girl Summer” featuring Nicki Minaj.
Those hoping to trademark a name or symbol should know the initial application fees can range from $225-$400 according to the USPTO.
“Make sure you trademark in the category you want to use,” Talley advises of how to file a trademark. “You also have to submit an example of how you use the business name or how you intend to use the business name upon completing the application and then you have to make sure you’re using that name within six months of the application filing and it being approved.”
Talley said the process usually takes a couple of months, during that period someone else has the chance to dispute or oppose the trademark if they’re using it too. Once the trademark is approved, it’s good for 10 years. After that, it has to be renewed or else the registration will be lost and someone else can register it at that time.
Cardi filed paperwork with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and hoped to use “Okurr” on various apparel, like shirts, leggings, and hats. The former reality star also wanted to use the slogan on items like posters. Meanwhile, Megan filed paperwork with the office to be able to use the phrase “Hot Girl Summer” for use on merchandise like T-shirts and hoodies, Billboard reported.
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