Register and filing basis
Amend to Principal Register — Trademark Office Action Guide
If you applied for the Supplemental Register but your mark is actually eligible for the Principal Register, the examining attorney will require amendment to the Principal Register.
What the USPTO is saying
Registration on the Supplemental Register is refused because your mark qualifies for the Principal Register. You must amend to seek Principal Register protection.
Why this issue is raised
The Supplemental Register is only for marks not eligible for the Principal Register. Arbitrary, fanciful, and suggestive marks — or descriptive marks with acquired distinctiveness — belong on the Principal Register.
How applicants typically overcome it
- Amend the application to seek registration on the Principal Register.
- Confirm you meet any specimen or use requirements for Principal Register registration.
- Do not insist on Supplemental Register if the mark clearly qualifies for Principal Register protection.
Related Office Action issues
Frequently asked questions
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