What happens if a voluntary publication request doesn’t meet the requirements?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 4 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. If a request for voluntary publication does not meet the specified requirements, particularly the Electronic Filing System (EFS) requirements, the USPTO will not process the request and will refund the publication fee. MPEP 1133 states: “ If the request does not comply with the requirements of this paragraph or the copy of the application does not comply with the Office electronic filing system requirements, the Office will not publish the application and will refund the publication fee. “ It’s important to note that while the publication fee will be refunded, the processing fee is typically non-refundable. To avoid delays and potential refusals, applicants should ensure their request fully complies with all requirements, especially the EFS guidelines, before submission. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Request for Voluntary Publication of Pre-November 2000 Applications MPEP 1133 Required Processing Fee for Voluntary Publication MPEP 1133 Publication Fee Refund If Application Does Not Meet Requirements MPEP 1130 Application Publication Fee Refunded If Noncompliant MPEP 1133 Request Must Meet USPTO Electronic Filing Standards MPEP 1133 Application Must Comply with Electronic Filing System for Early Publication MPEP 1129 Requirement for Application Copy and Fees MPEP 1133 Required Application May Not Be Published After Abandonment MPEP 1133 Prohibited Request for Early Patent Application Publication MPEP 1129 Permitted Publication Fee Required for Early Publication Request MPEP 1129 Required Other Related FAQs 4 FAQs Collapse Can abandoned applications be voluntarily published? How does the Electronic Filing System (EFS) affect voluntary publication...