How Much Does a Patent Cost?
How Much Does a Patent Cost?
Summary: The cost of getting a patent can range from a few hundred dollars for a provisional filing to tens of thousands for a granted utility patent, depending on complexity, legal fees, and country.
U.S. Patent Costs at a Glance
- **Provisional Patent**: $75–$300 (filing fee only), $1,000–$3,000 with attorney
- **Utility Patent (Simple)**: $5,000–$15,000 including legal costs
- **Utility Patent (Complex)**: $15,000–$25,000+
- **Design Patent**: $1,500–$3,500
- **International (PCT)**: $5,000–$100,000 depending on countries
Breakdown of Patent Expenses
- **USPTO Filing Fees**
- **Attorney Fees**
- **Search & Examination Fees**
- **Drawing and Drafting Costs**
- **Maintenance Fees (after grant)**
Hidden Costs to Watch
- Office Action responses
- Amendments and resubmissions
- Patent translations (for international filings)
- Foreign associate fees (if filing outside the U.S.)
How to Save on Patent Costs
- Start with a Provisional Patent Application
- Use Patent Drawing Software
- Explore Affordable Patent Lawyers or law school clinics
- Consider patent funding options or accelerators
Related Questions
- How to File a Patent on Your Own
- Are Provisional Patent Applications Public?
- Patent Agent Cost
- How to Patent a Design for Free