What is the difference between an oath and a declaration in 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. An oath is a sworn statement made before a person authorized to administer oaths, while a declaration is a written statement that can be used in lieu of an oath. According to MPEP 602 , “ A declaration may be submitted in lieu of an oath in any document filed in the Office provided the declaration complies with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.68. ” Declarations are often preferred because they don’t require appearing before an official and are easier to process electronically. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Declaration In Lieu of Oath Required MPEP 602 Required Attorney May Administer Oath as Notary MPEP 602 Attorney Cannot Administer Oaths MPEP 602 Requirement for Declaration Instead of Oath MPEP 602 Permitted Statutory Declaration for Patent Office MPEP 602 Original Oath or Declaration Required If Authenticity Questioned MPEP 602 Permitted Oath May Be Administered By Authorized Person MPEP 602 Permitted Written Declaration Requirement for Patent Documents MPEP 602 Permitted Oath May Be Administered By Authorized Person MPEP 602 Permitted Declaration Requirement Not Subject to Official Review MPEP 602 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 declaration?