What does it mean for an application to be “substantially allowable”?

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.

An application is considered “substantially allowable” when it is in condition for allowance, except for minor formal matters. According to MPEP § 1301, “When an application is in condition for allowance, except as to matters of form, the application will be considered special and prompt action taken to require correction of formal matters.”

This means that the substantive aspects of the patent application have been approved, and only minor corrections or formalities need to be addressed before the patent can be granted.