The $99 Patent Trap: Why Cheap Patents Can Cost You Everything

Secure Your Creations Podcast

The million-dollar question every inventor asks: "How much will a patent cost?" In this illuminating episode, patent attorney Mario Milano cuts through the confusion around patent expenses, providing a clear roadmap of what to expect from initial filing through maintenance.
We dive deep into the true cost ranges for both utility patents ($5,000-$10,000) and design patents ($2,000-$5,000), explaining why these figures fluctuate based on invention complexity, documentation quality, and even company size. Mario shares practical insider strategies for significantly reducing these costs without compromising protection. Most importantly, he warns against the dangerous allure of too-good-to-be-true $99 patent services that can ultimately cost inventors their entire intellectual property rights.
The conversation explores the strategic financial benefits of provisional patents as market-testing tools, the often-overlooked expenses of responding to Patent Office rejections, and the long-term maintenance fees required to keep patents in force. Through a fascinating case study about Smuckers' controversial peanut butter and jelly sandwich patent, we demonstrate how seemingly simple innovations can sometimes receive valuable patent protection.
Whether you're a solo inventor watching your budget or a startup allocating limited resources, this episode delivers crucial guidance on making smart patent investment decisions. Don't file another application until you've heard Mario's expert advice on timing your patent application, preparing thorough documentation, and avoiding costly pitfalls in the patent process.

Chapters

1. Introduction to Patent Costs (00:00:00)

2. Breakdown of Patent Application Expenses (00:02:57)

3. Strategies to Reduce Patent Costs (00:05:14)

4. Provisional vs. Non-Provisional Patents (00:09:00)

5. Maintenance Fees and Unexpected Costs (00:12:39)

6. Is It Patentable: PB&J Sandwich Case (00:14:30)