What is the difference between an ‘allowed’ application and an application ‘in issue’?
According to the MPEP, there is no substantial difference between an ‘allowed’ application and an application ‘in issue’. The MPEP uses these terms interchangeably:
“An ‘allowed’ nonprovisional application or an application ‘in issue’ is one which has been examined and determined to meet all statutory requirements, and in which a notice of allowance has been sent to the applicant.”
Both terms refer to an application that has passed examination and is awaiting issuance as a patent, provided that all necessary fees are paid and no issues arise that would necessitate withdrawal from issue.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 200 - Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure