Can a non-practitioner change the correspondence address for a company’s patent application?

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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. No, a non-practitioner (someone who is not a registered patent attorney or agent) cannot change the correspondence address for a company’s patent application, even if they have the authority to act on behalf of the company. The MPEP states: If an application is filed by a company to whom the invention has been assigned or to whom there is an obligation to assign the invention, a person (other than a patent practitioner) who has the authority to act on behalf of the company may not change the correspondence address, as all papers signed on behalf of a juristic entity must be signed by a patent practitioner. This requirement is based on 37 CFR 1.33(b)(3) , which specifies that amendments and other papers must be signed by a patent practitioner when submitted on behalf of a juristic entity (such as a company). Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Fee and Oath/Declaration Requirement for Patent Application MPEP 601 Required 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 No Information Disclosure Statement in Provisional Application MPEP 601 Permitted Application Must Be Submitted to USPTO Director MPEP 601 Required Provisional Application Requirement MPEP 601 Permitted Filing Fee Required for Provisional Application MPEP 601 Required Provisional Application Requirement MPEP 601 Permitted Cover Sheet Must Include Attorney Info and Address MPEP 601 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the significance of the filing date for a patent application? Why is it important to include contact information in a power of attorn...