What is the USPTO’s recommendation regarding submitting preliminary amendments?

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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. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has a clear recommendation regarding the submission of preliminary amendments. According to MPEP 608.04(b) : Applicants are strongly encouraged to avoid submitting any preliminary amendments so as to minimize the burden on the Office in processing preliminary amendments and reduce delays in processing the application. The USPTO advises applicants to incorporate desired amendments directly into the text of the specification rather than submitting separate preliminary amendments. This approach is recommended even for continuation or divisional applications of prior-filed applications. By following this guidance, applicants can help streamline the application process and potentially reduce processing times. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Avoid Submitting Preliminary Amendments to Minimize Processing Burden MPEP 608.04(b) Preliminary Amendment Not Part of Original Disclosure MPEP 608.04(b) Preliminary Amendment on Filing Date Is Part of Original Disclosure MPEP 608.04(b) Amendments and Other Papers Must Comply With Rules MPEP 608 Preliminary Amendment on Filing Date Is Part of Original Disclosure MPEP 608.04(b) Amendments Can Be Made to Specification MPEP 608.04(b) Permitted Full and Clear Disclosure Required for Patent MPEP 608 Required Requirement for Full and Clear Disclosure MPEP 608 Claims Must Find Basis in Original Disclosure MPEP 608 Required No New Matter After Filing Date MPEP 608 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Are preliminary amendments considered new matter? What is the difference between preliminary amendments filed with the application and those filed after the filing ...