How does an examiner indicate that they have considered an information disclosure statement (IDS)?

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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. An examiner can indicate consideration of an IDS in two ways: By placing their initials adjacent to the citations on the PTO/SB/08 form or its equivalent. Using an alternative electronic signature method where: Each page of reference citations is stamped with “All references considered except where lined through” along with the examiner’s electronic initials. The final page includes the examiner’s electronic signature. Citations not considered are struck through. As stated in the MPEP, The initials of the examiner placed adjacent to the citations on the PTO/SB/08 or its equivalent mean that the information has been considered by the examiner to the extent noted above. ( MPEP 609.05(b) ) Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Examiner Consideration of IDS Information MPEP 609.05(b) Alternative Electronic Signature for Information Disclosure Statements MPEP 609.05(b) Permitted Electronic Signature Requirement for Information Disclosure Statements MPEP 609.05(b) Information Disclosure Statement Filing Does Not Imply Search Conducted MPEP 609 Information Disclosure Statement Using PTO/SB/08 MPEP 609 Permitted Requirement for Proper Information Disclosure Statement MPEP 609 Examiner Will Consider Information Disclosure Statement MPEP 609 Examiner Must Fill Name and Date on PTO/SB/08 Form MPEP 609.05(b) Required Fee for Information Disclosure Statement MPEP 609 Information Disclosure Statement Must Be Filed Using PTO/SB/08 Form MPEP 609 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if an IDS is filed after the issue fee has been paid? What is the significance of the examiner&#8217;s initials on an IDS? What is the significance of the phrase &#8216...