What are the requirements for joint inventors in provisional patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 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. According to 37 CFR 1.45(c) , for provisional applications: Each named inventor must have contributed to the subject matter disclosed in the application. The application is considered a joint application under 35 U.S.C. 116. The MPEP clarifies: Because provisional applications may be filed without claims, 37 CFR 1.45(c) states that each inventor named in a joint provisional application must have made a contribution to the subject matter disclosed in the application. This ensures that all named inventors have contributed to the disclosed invention, even in the absence of formal claims. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Declaration In Lieu of Oath Required MPEP 602 Required Warning Required for False Statements MPEP 602 Required Provisionally Executed Documents May Be Accepted MPEP 602 Required Copy of Oath Must Be Filed MPEP 602 Original Oath or Declaration Required for Authenticity MPEP 602 Recommended Original Oath or Declaration Required If Authenticity Questioned MPEP 602 Permitted Oath May Be Administered By Authorized Person MPEP 602 Permitted Requirement for Oath Before Foreign Official MPEP 602 Required Oath Must Be Attested by Official Seal MPEP 602 Required Official Character Must Be Established Without Seal MPEP 602 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the signature requirements for inventor&#8217;s oaths or declarations? What are the requirements for inventor signatures on patent applications? What residence information is required for inventors in patent applications? What are the requirements for listing an inventor&#8217;s residence on a patent application? What happens if an inventor refuses to sign an oath or declara...