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If you’ve received a Trademark Notice of Allowance (NOA) from the USPTO, congratulations — your trademark application has made it through publication without opposition. But before your trademark is fully registered, there’s still one final step: proving that you’re using the mark in U.S. commerce.

We’ll now explain what a Notice of Allowance means, what your next options are, and how our team can help you file a compliant Statement of Use (SOU) or extension request — quickly and accurately.

 What Is a Trademark Notice of Allowance(NOA)?

A Notice of Allowance is a formal document from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that tells you your trademark has been “allowed” — not yet registered — under the Intent-to-Use (Section 1(b)) basis.

You receive a NOA when:

• Your trademark passes the USPTO’s examination
• It is published in the Trademark Official Gazette
• No one files an opposition during the 30-day window
•  Important: A NOA is not the same as registration. You still need to take action to secure your trademark rights.

 What to Do After Receiving a Notice of Allowance

From the date the NOA is issued, you have 6 months to either:

1. File a Statement of Use (SOU)

This tells the USPTO that your trademark is now being used in commerce. You’ll need to submit:

• A specimen showing the mark on your product or service
• The date of first use
• A legal declaration that the mark is in use

Even if you were using the trademark earlier, you must still file an SOU if your application was filed under Section 1(b).

2. File an Extension Request

Not using the mark yet? You can file a 6-month extension request to delay the SOU. You can request up to five extensions total (max. 36 months from NOA date).

You must:

• Pay a USPTO fee per class
• Affirm your continued intent to use the trademark

What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?

Failure to file a Statement of Use or an extension within 6 months of your NOA date will cause your application to be abandoned.

After abandonment, your only option is to start over with a new application — losing your original priority date.

Let us help you file everything on time. We track all deadlines and handle the legal side, so you don’t have to worry.

What is a Valid Trademark Specimen?

A specimen is proof that you’re actually using the trademark in real-world business. Examples include:

• For goods: Labels, product packaging, eCommerce listings with “Buy Now”
• For services: Website screenshots, ads, service menus

 Our team will review your specimen and make sure it meets all USPTO requirements.

Why Choose Us for SOU Filing?

We specialize in helping business owners, startups, Amazon sellers, and online brands move seamlessly from Notice of Allowance to Registration.

With our help, you get:

• Correct SOU or Extension filing
• Proper specimens and supporting documents
• Zero missed deadlines
• Flat-fee pricing and fast service

What Happened if I forget SOU Filling after Issuance of NOA?

In case you forgot to file the Statement of Use, your trademark would get abandoned and you will have 2 months to Revive your Trademark Application. Your trademark will get restore and proceed to registration. In case you forgot to Revive, you may have to file New Trademark Application in USA.

Get Help Filing Your Statement of Use or Extension

Received a Notice of Allowance? Let our experienced trademark professionals handle your SOU filing — so you can focus on growing your brand.