How long does small entity status last?
Once small entity status is established in an application or patent, it remains in effect until:
- The issue fee is due, or
- Any maintenance fee is due
At these points, a new determination of entitlement to small entity status is required. As stated in 37 CFR 1.27(g)(1): “Once small entity status is established in an application or patent, fees as a small entity may thereafter be paid in that application or patent without regard to a change in status until the issue fee is due or any maintenance fee is due.”
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 500 - Receipt and Handling of Mail and Papers,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure