How much does it cost to get an invention patented?
Isabella Ramos
Updated on March 01, 2026
How much does it cost to get an invention patented?
A patent can cost from $900 for a do-it-yourself application to between $5,000 and $10,000+ with the help of patent lawyers. A patent protects an invention and the cost of the process to get the patent will depend on the type of patent (provisional, non-provisional, or utility) and the complexity of the invention.
Can you patent an idea for an invention?
The simple answer is no—you cannot patent an idea for an invention. The invention itself has to be produced or a patent application containing the invention must be filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). While all inventions start with an idea, not every idea can be called an invention.
Do I need a prototype for a patent?
Many inventors wonder if they need a prototype prior to patenting an invention. The simple answer is “no’. A prototype is not required prior to filing a patent application with the U.S. Patent Office. While prototypes can be valuable in developing your invention, they can also be costly.
What’s the cheapest way to get a patent?
Cheapest way to get a patent
- Do-It-Yourself (Draft it and File it Yourself)
- Cost of Filing It Yourself.
- Still To Expensive?
- Cost of Filing It Yourself.
- Fiverr & Other Low Cost Options.
- If Budgets Allow – The Better Option Is to Use an Attorney.
- The Cost of An Attorney.
Can I get a patent for free?
Is it possible to obtain a patent for free? Only under limited circumstances, which are laid out in Section 708.01, List of Special Cases, in the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP). If your concept fits, you will need to prepare a statement of facts to justify special consideration for a fee waiver.
How do I pattern my idea?
Steps to Patent an Idea
- Keep a record of how you came up with the idea and your step by step progress.
- Research your idea to make sure it is eligible for patenting under established patent law.
- Make a prototype of your invention when filing a patent.
How can I get a patent for free?
You can file a patent online using the patent office’s EFS-Web service. The USPTO’s website includes detailed information on what should be in your application on its “General Information Concerning Patents” page under Inventors Resources and Guidance.
How do I submit an invention idea?
FREE Invention Submission
- Inventicate your invention with the Inventicator™.
- Inventicate a Benchmark Invention with the Inventicator™.
- Fill out the form.
- Sign and submit.
- We will contact you if we are interested in learning more.
How long do patents usually last for?
20 years
How long does patent protection last? Patent protection is granted for a limited period, generally 20 years from the filing date of the application.
How “useful” must my invention be to get a patent?
– “A” patent: This is singular. – Useful: The invention must have a specific, substantial and credible utility. – Process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter: This is a description of the subject matter, and categories, eligible for patenting. – Whoever invents or discovers: The inventor is the only person who may obtain the patent.
How to sell an invention without a patent?
Companies have a policy of non-confidentiality.
How do you get a patent on an invention?
The first step in getting a patent on an invention is writing a patent application. In this application, the inventor must disclose the invention in sufficient detail for the average skilled person to be able to reconstruct it.
Do I need a patent to sell my invention?
Patents are not legally required before you sell your product or profit from your idea. There are many products and services sold in the United States that are not patent-protected. However, a patent is necessary if you want to prevent others from making marketing, selling, or importing your invention.