What information can I access about my unpublished patent application?

For unpublished patent applications, access to information is more restricted and typically limited to the applicant or their registered representative. Here’s what you need to know:

• Unpublished application information is available through Private PAIR.
• You must associate a Customer Number with your application to access this information.
• If you’re not the applicant or authorized representative, access may be restricted due to confidentiality rules.

The MPEP states: In private PAIR, an applicant (or applicant’s registered patent attorney or registered patent agent) can securely track the progress of applicant’s application(s) through the USPTO. Private PAIR makes available information relating to unpublished patent applications, but the applicant must associate a Customer Number with the application to obtain access. (MPEP 203.08)

For more information on Customer Number practice, refer to MPEP § 403.

To learn more:

• unpublished patent applications
• Private PAIR
• Customer Number
• confidentiality
• patent application information