What is an Application Data Sheet (ADS) and when is it required?

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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. An Application Data Sheet (ADS) is a document containing bibliographic data for a patent application, arranged in a format specified by the USPTO. According to MPEP 601.05 , an ADS: May be submitted voluntarily in provisional or nonprovisional applications Must be submitted when required by 37 CFR 1.55 and 1.78 to claim priority to or benefit of a prior-filed application Must be titled “Application Data Sheet” Becomes part of the application when provided The USPTO prefers the use of an ADS in all applications to help facilitate electronic capturing of important data. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Application Data Sheet Required for Filing MPEP 601.05 Required Application Data Sheet Preferred for Electronic Capture MPEP 601.05 Required Application Data Sheet Required for Filing MPEP 601.05 Application Data Sheet Required for Filing MPEP 601.05 Claims Not Required In Provisional Applications MPEP 601 Prohibited Claims Not Required in Provisional Applications MPEP 601 Prohibited Application Must Be Submitted to USPTO Director MPEP 601 Required Requirement for Application Data Sheet MPEP 601.05 Required Provisional Application Cannot Claim Priority or Earlier Filing Date MPEP 601 Required Application Data Sheet Required for Filing as Fillable Form MPEP 601.05 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the USPTO handle inconsistencies between the Application Data Sheet and other documents? What are the requirements for submitting a supplemental ADS? Can I use forms other than the USPTO&#8217;s ADS form to submit application data? What happens if there are inconsistencies between an ADS and other documents in a patent application? What happens if t...