What is the PTO-892 form and when is it used?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10

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.

The PTO-892 form, also known as the ‘Notice of References Cited,’ is an official document used by patent examiners to cite references during the examination process. According to MPEP 707.05(d):

“…such reference shall be cited by the examiner in the usual manner using a form PTO-892, ‘Notice of References Cited’…”

This form is used when the examiner wants to formally cite a reference, including those initially mentioned by the applicant in an amendatory paper and subsequently relied upon by the examiner.

Tags: Notice Of References Cited, patent examination, Pto 892, Reference Citation