When are maintenance fees due for utility patents?
Maintenance fees for utility patents are due at specific intervals after the patent grant. According to MPEP 2504:
“Maintenance fees may be paid in patents without surcharge during the periods extending respectively from: (1) 3 years through 3 years and 6 months after grant for the first maintenance fee, (2) 7 years through 7 years and 6 months after grant for the second maintenance fee, and (3) 11 years through 11 years and 6 months after grant for the third maintenance fee.”
There is also a grace period with a surcharge for each maintenance fee payment, extending 6 months beyond these periods.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2500 - Maintenance Fees,
MPEP 2504 - Patents Subject To Maintenance Fees,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure