Protect your work now, finish your patent later
Protect your work now, finish your patent later
You're an inventor. An innovator. And you've created something special. Your next smart move? Protect your work. Whether you need a utility patent for an invention, or a design patent for a product design, we can help. Not quite ready for a utility patent? We can help you file a provisional patent application so you're protected while you perfect your invention.
Protecting your work starts at only $199 + filing fees.
3 ways to protect your work
Provisional patent application
Provisional patent application
$199
+ filing fees
Get started
Take the time you need to perfect your invention while averting competitors with patent pending status.
Utility patent
Utility patent
$575
Step 1 starts at
$699
Get started
Keep competitors from making, using, or selling your invention without permission.
Design patent
Design patent
$675
Starts at
$999
+ federal filing fees
Get started
Protect your product design from competitors who want to copy and sell your unique creation.
Want professional illustrations of your invention for a utility patent application? Looking to complete a comprehensive patent search? Let us help.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a utility patent and a design patent?
A utility patent protects an invention. A design patent protects a product's design. The utility patent protects how the invention works. The design patent protects how it looks. If the design and function are both unique, and the design doesn't affect function, your invention may qualify for both.
When should I file a provisional patent application?
If you're not done perfecting your invention but want to protect it from competitors, you should file a provisional patent application. This essentially holds your place in line with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office for up to one year, ensuring no one else gets the rights to your invention by filing before you.
What do I need to provide to file my provisional patent application?
We're here to walk you through the process, so we'll let you know what's needed for your application as we move along.
Some of the information we'll need includes:
- Invention title
- Inventors' names and addresses
- Address for correspondence
- Summary of what your invention does
- Detailed description of and how your invention works
- Background information about your invention
- Drawings of your invention (highly recommended, but optional)
- U.S. government interest or ownership information (if applicable)
Once I file a provisional patent application, how long do I have to file my patent?
You have one year from the date your provisional patent was filed to file your patent. Please note you cannot extend this deadline or file another provisional application for the same invention.
Can I file a provisional patent application for a design patent?
No, they're for utility patents only.
Why choose us
4 million+ businesses
Helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into businesses over 4 million times.
650,000+ consultations
Providing access to our independent network of attorneys over 650,000 times.
65,000+ provisional applications
Helping inventors file over 65,000 provisional patent applications.
What our customers are saying
LegalZoom is an excellent service. They are very organized and meticulous. They keep you informed as your project moves along and answer any questions you may have. I have a lot of work in the pipeline, and LegalZoom will get it all.
Chris H.
Whitestone, NY
This is my third patent filing using LegalZoom, and they make the process easy and understandable. I cannot recommend them more.
Sharon L.
Wauconda, IL
It was a fast, easy to use and understand process, especially for someone like me, who is completely new to this type of thing.
Joanne L.
North Bergen, NJ
Ready to protect your work?
Start my application
Questions?
Call an agent at (866) 738-1730
Weekends: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. PT
© LegalZoom.com, Inc. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer: LegalZoom provides access to independent attorneys and self-service tools. LegalZoom is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except where authorized through its subsidiary law firm LZ Legal Services, LLC. Use of our products and services is governed by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
