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.
If a benefit claim is not submitted within the required time period, it is considered waived. The MPEP states: This time period is not extendable and a failure to submit the reference required by 35 U.S.C. 119(e) and/or 120, where applicable, within this time period is considered a waiver of any benefit of such prior application(s) under 35 U.S.C. 119(e), 120, 121, 365(c), and 386(c) unless a petition to accept an unintentionally delayed benefit claim is granted.
However, applicants may file a petition to accept an unintentionally delayed benefit claim. For more information on this process, see MPEP § 211.04.