Can I use email to respond to Office actions from the USPTO?

Question

Accepted Answer

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. Yes, you can use email to respond to Office actions from the USPTO, but certain conditions must be met: You must have a written authorization on file for Internet communication. The response must be submitted through the USPTO’s secure email system or the Electronic Filing System (EFS-Web). The email must include all necessary information and attachments as required for the response. MPEP 502.03 states: “Replies to Office actions may NOT be submitted by email unless specifically authorized.” This means that without proper authorization, email responses to Office actions will not be accepted. It’s important to note that while email can be used, the USPTO recommends using EFS-Web for most communications, including responses to Office actions, as it provides a more secure and efficient method of submission. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Replies to Office Actions Must Be Filed Electronically MPEP 502.03 Prohibited Internet Email Must Have Written Authorization MPEP 502.03 Prohibited Written Authorization Must Be Submitted Via USPTO System, Mail, Or Fax MPEP 502.03 Prohibited Oral Authorization for Internet Communication Permitted MPEP 502.03 Permitted Emails Except for Office Actions and Signatures Allowed With Authorization MPEP 502.03 Permitted Authorization for Internet Communication with Examiner MPEP 502.03 Permitted Correspondence Must Be Submitted via USPTO Electronic Filing System MPEP 502 Permitted Written Authorization Cannot Be Filed via Email MPEP 502.03 Prohibited Requirement for Internet Communications Authorized or Withdrawn MPEP 502.03 Permitted Authorization Required for Email Communications with Applicants MPEP 502.03 Permitted Ot...