How does one inexpensively get trademark a company name and get a patent on a product? -

Hello. I am beginning a small business. I would like to trademark the name. And I have an idea that I would like to patent, as well. How do you get a patent on an idea/design and trademark a name without paying $100 s of dollars? I am a college student and any help would be appreciated!! Thank you!

The short answer to your question is: You don t. That said, you can file your business name with the state government agency in your area that records business names. That keeps others from copying it. And, you can file a provisional patent application that protects your idea for one year with the U.S. Patent Office. A regular patent application and it s LONG process takes 3 years and costs around $4000. Sorry, no short-cuts.For free and confidential business advice go to: www.score.org. A SCORE counselor in your area can help you with your planning process and it s all FREE!Good Luck!