What is the purpose of the Statement of Use in the trademark application process?

The Statement of Use serves a critical function in the trademark application process, specifically demonstrating that the applicant is ready to commence actual use of the trademark in commerce. After an application is initially filed under an intent-to-use basis, the applicant must file a Statement of Use to prove that the trademark is not just a concept or intention but has been put into actual use in the marketplace. This document includes evidence showing that the trademark is being used in connection with the goods or services specified in the application, reinforcing the intent behind the initial filing.

In this context, while proving ownership is essential to the trademark application process, that is typically established through the application's initial filing rather than through a Statement of Use. The process of requesting a cancellation of a Notice of Abandonment is not relevant as it pertains to a different procedural aspect of trademark law. Similarly, a Statement of Use does not notify the applicant of application denial; such notifications are handled through different communications from the USPTO, usually involved in addressing substantive rejections during the examination phase.