What is true about intent-to-use applications?

The assertion that intent-to-use applications allow securing a filing date without current usage evidence is accurate. An intent-to-use application is designed for applicants who have a bona fide intention to use a trademark in commerce but who have not yet done so at the time of filing. This means that applicants can file for a trademark based on their intent to use it in the future, allowing them to secure a priority filing date without the necessity of demonstrating actual use of the trademark in commerce at the time of application.

The ability to obtain a filing date without evidence of prior use is a crucial feature of intent-to-use applications, as it allows businesses to protect their branding as they develop and market their products or services. After filing, the applicant must eventually provide proof of use in commerce or convert the application to a use-in-commerce application to proceed toward registration.

In contrast, applications that require current usage of the trademark necessitate that the trademark is already being used in commerce at the time of filing, which is different from the intent-to-use standard. This distinction highlights the utility of intent-to-use applications for business strategies that involve future plans.