How do I claim small entity status for patent maintenance fees?

How do I claim small entity status for patent maintenance fees?

To claim small entity status for patent maintenance fees, follow these steps:

1. Verify that you meet the small entity requirements as defined in MPEP 2550.
2. Submit a written assertion of entitlement to small entity status.
3. Pay the reduced fee amount for small entities.

According to the MPEP: “A small entity assertion must be filed in order to pay reduced patent fees as a small entity. A small entity assertion is only required to be filed once in an application or patent.” It’s important to note that your status can change, and you must notify the USPTO if you no longer qualify for small entity status.

To learn more:

• small entity
• maintenance fees
• fee assertion
• patent fees