Notice of Allowance (Trademark) Law & Legal Definition

Notice of allowance (NOA) is a written notification from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). NOA shows that a specific trademark has survived the opposition period following publication in the Official Gazette. NOA provides that a trademark has been allowed for registration. However, it does not mean that the mark has registered yet. Receiving a NOA is another step on the way to registration.

NOAs are only issued for applications that have been filed based on intent to use. The NOA is important because the issue date of the NOA provides the due date for filing a statement of use. Only after receiving the NOA can an applicant file a statement of use. After receiving a NOA an applicant can also file a request for an extension of time to file a statement of use within 6 months from the issue date of the notice. If the applicant fails to timely file a statement of use or a request for an extension of time to file a statement of use, the application can be abandoned.