Official Gazette
The USPTO's weekly publication where marks appear for opposition.
When your mark is approved, it publishes here. Third parties then have a window to oppose. Larger brand owners monitor the Gazette continuously, which is how they find filings that resemble their marks.
Why it matters to your application
The moment your mark becomes public business. Publication opens a window in which anyone who thinks your registration would harm them can oppose it - and it is also how brand owners who monitor the Gazette find filings that resemble their own marks.
In order
- Watch for the publication date once your mark is approved. It is visible in TSDR.
- Count the opposition window from that date.
- If nobody opposes, your application moves on - to registration, or to a Notice of Allowance if you filed intent-to-use.
- If you own marks already, this is the publication that monitoring watches on your behalf.
How this plays out
A large brand's monitoring flags a newly published mark resembling one of its registrations. It contacts the applicant during the opposition window and the matter is settled by agreement - far cheaper than a cancellation action after registration.
About official gazette
What happens if someone opposes my mark?
The matter goes to the TTAB as an adversarial proceeding with pleadings and evidence. It is closer to litigation than to paperwork.
Does publication mean my mark is registered?
No. It means examination is complete and the opposition window has opened.
Can I extend someone else's opposition deadline?
A potential opposer can request an extension of time to oppose, which is common while parties talk.
General information about USPTO procedure, not legal advice about your situation. Always confirm the status and deadlines on your own application in USPTO TSDR.
Others you will meet at this stage
Allegation of use
Proof you have started actually selling under the mark.
FilingApplicant
The person or business that will own the registration.
FilingBasis for filing
Why you are entitled to file: you use it, or you intend to.
FilingClass
The category your goods or services fall into. Fees are per class.
Filing