How does the USPTO handle assignment documents after recording?

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.

After recording an assignment document, the USPTO follows a specific process. According to MPEP 302.01: ‘Assignment documents submitted for recording are scanned and stored in a public database.’

The handling process includes:

• Scanning the submitted copy of the assignment document
• Storing the scanned document in a publicly accessible database
• Retaining the physical copy submitted (not returning it to the sender)
• Making the recorded information available for public inspection

This process ensures that assignment records are preserved and accessible while maintaining the integrity of the original submissions.