What trademark class is a charity in?

Most charities register in class 36. Class 36 covers finance & insurance. You only ever register the classes that match what you actually sell.

Do charities need to register in more than one class?

Often, yes. A trademark is only protected in the classes you register, and you pay a fee for each one. Charities usually start with class 36, then add others as the business grows.

How much does it cost a charity to register a trademark?

Filing direct with the UK IPO costs £205 for the first class and £60 for each additional class, so a charity covering class 36 pays about £205. The fee isn't refunded if your mark is refused — which is why checking the name is free first matters.

Trademark classes · By business type

Which trademark classes does a charity need?

Most charities register in class 36 (Finance & insurance).

Charitable fundraising is classified as a financial service, which surprises many founders who expect a category of its own. The wider work of organising volunteers, running campaigns and supporting beneficiaries spreads across the business, education and personal-services classes.

Last reviewed June 2026

Before you file in class 36, make sure the name is free. If it's already taken, your application can be refused — and the £205 IPO fee isn't refunded. Checking takes seconds and costs nothing.

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The classes charities usually register in

Class36Finance & insuranceCharitable fundraising: raising and managing donations is a financial service.

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Frequently asked questions

What trademark class is a charity in?: Most charities register in class 36. Class 36 covers finance & insurance. You only ever register the classes that match what you actually sell.
Do charities need to register in more than one class?: Often, yes. A trademark is only protected in the classes you register, and you pay a fee for each one. Charities usually start with class 36, then add others as the business grows.
How much does it cost a charity to register a trademark?: Filing direct with the UK IPO costs £205 for the first class and £60 for each additional class, so a charity covering class 36 pays about £205. The fee isn't refunded if your mark is refused — which is why checking the name is free first matters. See the full cost breakdown.

Check your name before you file

A trademark only protects you in the classes you register — and only if the name's free to begin with. Search the UK and EU registers in seconds. Free, no sign-up.

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These are the classes charities most commonly register, not a full legal specification — when you file, you list the exact goods or services you need. This is general information, not legal advice. See also our guide toregistering a UK trademark, orbrowse other business types.