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What is the process of transferring ownership of a trademark from a sole proprietor to a corporation?

Written by Jan Buza

Co-founder of Trama

As with all trademark ownership transfers, the process involves preparing an assignment agreement. This agreement identifies both parties—the sole proprietor as the assignor and the corporation as the assignee, specifying the trademark by registration number. Once you have it signed and finalized, submit it to the IP office where the trademark is registered, along with any required forms and fees. Preparing and filing this agreement with a legal expert is recommended, as it may be refused due to administrative or drafting mistakes.

Some IP offices require evidence of the corporation's legal status (such as a certificate of incorporation) alongside the assignment. Confirm the specific requirements of the relevant office before submitting.

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