How does entity status affect ex parte reexamination fees?

The entity status of the requester affects the fees for ex parte reexamination requests under 35 U.S.C. 302. According to the MPEP:

“Pursuant to 37 CFR 1.20(c)(1) and (c)(2), there are different filing fees for a large entity, a small entity and a micro entity, when filing a request for ex parte reexamination under 35 U.S.C. 302.”

To claim small entity or micro entity status, the requester must affirmatively state their eligibility. For example:

• Small entity status can be claimed by checking the appropriate box on the transmittal form (PTO/SB/57)
• Only patent owner requesters can establish micro entity status
• Third-party requesters cannot claim micro entity status

For more information on establishing entity status, refer to:

• MPEP § 509.02 and § 509.03 for small entity status
• MPEP § 509.04 for micro entity status

To learn more:

• ex parte reexamination
• entity status
• patent fees
• USPTO fees