The date of prior use is the date since the said brand name has been in use for commercial purposes. In other words, date of first use/prior use anywhere is the date when the goods were first sold or transported, or the services were first rendered, under the mark. In case a date of use is mentioned in the trademark application, then a user affidavit must be submitted with the trademark application. If you claim a ‘date of prior use’ your trademark shall be deemed to be protected since the date you claim rather than the date on which you apply for a trademark application.