What is the difference between a power of attorney and a customer number?

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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. A power of attorney and a customer number serve different purposes in patent applications: Power of Attorney : This is a legal document that gives an attorney or agent the authority to act on behalf of the applicant or assignee in matters before the USPTO. Customer Number : This is a unique identifier assigned by the USPTO to allow for easier management of multiple patent applications. According to MPEP 601.02 : “A power of attorney may be supplied with a customer number so that the power of attorney will be effective in all existing and future patent applications or patent matters associated with that customer number.” This means that a customer number can be used in conjunction with a power of attorney to streamline the process of managing multiple applications. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Juristic Applicant or Patent Owner Can Sign Transmittal Letter MPEP 601 Permitted Requirements for Papers in Patent Applications MPEP 601 Contents of Patent Application Required MPEP 601 Required Fee Required for Patent Application MPEP 601 Required Inventor Must File Written Patent Application MPEP 601 Required Fee and Oath/Declaration Requirement for Patent Application MPEP 601 Required Layout and Content of Patent Applications Under AIA MPEP 601 Power of Attorney Requires Full Mailing Address and Contact Info MPEP 601.02 Recommended Appointment Requirement for Power of Attorney MPEP 601.02 Reissue Application Requirements MPEP 601 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Why is it important to include contact information in a power of attorney for patent applications? How can an applicant revoke a power of attorney in a patent application? How do power of at...