Article: Even if your business has yet to take off, look into applying for a patent. Submitting a patent application requires a fee ranging from $200 to $500 USD on average. To complete the patent, you need to describe your invention's purpose and function in clear, definite terms. Access the U.S. Patent Office's application at https://www.uspto.gov/patents-application-process/file-online. Patenting your idea prevents other people from stealing it. You can patent any new, useful idea, process, or product. Your claim is protected even while the patent is pending. Consider contacting a patent attorney to help you complete the application. Hiring an attorney costs about $5,000 to $10,000 on average. As with any reality show, Shark Tank has certain eligibility requirements you must meet before you apply. You do not have to live in the U.S. to be eligible for the show, but you do need to be a citizen or granted permanent residency. That means being born in the U.S., being born to American citizens in other countries, or applying for permanent residency. If you live in another country, you will need to travel in order to attend casting calls or the show. Keep this in mind when deciding if you're ready to apply. The standard age of consent in the U.S. is 18. That is the rule limiting who the producers can legally allow on Shark Tank. Children can appear on the show, however. If you're not of age yet, you will need an adult to sign all of the participation documents the show producers give you. The average age of consent is 18, but this varies slightly from state to state. The age of majority may be a little different where you live. The show has a few extra requirements that may affect your eligibility in some cases. For a full list of requirements, visit the show's website when you download or submit your application. Convicted felons are barred from the show. If you have felony or misdemeanor charges pending, you can't apply. You and your immediate family members cannot be employed by Finmax LLC, Sony Pictures Television Inc, or other companies involved in the show's production. You can't be employed by these companies 1 year before you apply. You are ineligible if you are a candidate for public office. You must also agree not to run for public office until 1 year after the initial broadcast of the last episode of the season you appear in.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Protect your invention by registering for a patent. Become a legal resident or citizen of the U.S. Have a parent or guardian fill out the application if you're under 18. Meet criminal record and other legal requirements for the show.