Written by Tomas Orsula
Senior Trademark Attorney
Yes, you can own a trademark as an individual. However, it may not always be advisable.
Individual ownership is usually preferred if the person wants to retain the ownership rights and license the use of the trademark to an external company, e.g. a celebrity licensing the use to the producer of their merch. This solution enables them to control the rights to their trademark and gives them flexibility in granting usage rights. This solution also protects the trademark from a business going bankrupt.
Another often-seen reason for individual ownership is doing it solely as a temporary measure while the holder(s) set up a new company or an LLC to which the trademark ownership will be transferred later.
You can learn more about registering a trademark in personal vs business name in this article.
Will I be able to use different colour versions of my trademark?
Shall we register a word trademark, image trademark, or a combination?
Does the cost of trademark registration vary between countries?
What is the best way to protect all of the different variations of our logo?
We have multiple partners to be listed as joint owners of the trademark. Is this possible?
What are the advantages of registering a trademark under our business name?
What is the difference between a Statement of Use and a Declaration of Use?
Does logo registration offer any benefits over word trademark registration?
Can I apply for the trademark even if it's not used in commerce yet?
If I register the US trademark, does this registration offer any protection outside of the US?
Our team of experienced trademark attorneys is here to help you! Simply send us an email outlining your request and we'll be happy to assist you.
