What is the purpose of recording documents with the USPTO?

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.

Recording documents with the USPTO serves several important purposes:

• Provides constructive notice to the public of the recorded document
• Protects against subsequent purchasers or mortgagees
• Establishes priority dates for security interests
• Maintains a clear chain of title for patents and applications

MPEP 313 states: The recording of a document pursuant to 37 CFR 3.11 is not a determination by the Office of the validity of the document or the effect that document has on the title to an application, a patent, or a registration. However, recording does provide legal benefits and helps maintain accurate ownership records.

For more information on chain of title, visit: chain of title.

For more information on Constructive Notice, visit: Constructive Notice.