What is the purpose of MPEP 203.08 – Status Inquiries?

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.

What is the purpose of MPEP 203.08 – Status Inquiries?

MPEP 203.08 – Status Inquiries outlines the procedures for handling status inquiries about patent applications. The section states:

“The Office receives numerous telephone and written requests for information concerning the status of patent applications. These status inquiries may be made to the USPTO Contact Center (UCC), the Technology Center (TC) or the Patent Examining Group.”

This section provides guidance to both applicants and USPTO staff on how to handle these inquiries efficiently and in compliance with privacy regulations.