How can an applicant authorize email communications with the USPTO?
To authorize email communications with the USPTO, an applicant must provide a written authorization. According to MPEP 502.03:
‘The written authorization may be submitted via EFS-Web, mail, or fax. It cannot be submitted by email.’
The USPTO provides a sample authorization form:
‘Recognizing that Internet communications are not secure, I hereby authorize the USPTO to communicate with the undersigned and practitioners in accordance with 37 CFR 1.33 and 37 CFR 1.34 concerning any subject matter of this application by video conferencing, instant messaging, or electronic mail. I understand that a copy of these communications will be made of record in the application file.’
To facilitate processing, the USPTO recommends using Form PTO/SB/439, available at www.uspto.gov/patent/patents-forms. This form can be filed via EFS-Web using the document description ‘Internet Communications Authorized’.
To learn more: