How can an applicant obtain copies of papers submitted to the USPTO?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. If an applicant needs copies of papers submitted to the USPTO, they can request them from the Office. However, this service is not free. As stated in Form Paragraph 7.214 of MPEP 719.01 : If applicant has not preserved copies of the papers, the Office will furnish copies at applicant’s expense. See 37 CFR 1.19 for a list of the current fees. It’s important for applicants to maintain their own copies of all documents submitted to the USPTO to avoid potential fees and delays associated with requesting copies. The current fee schedule for obtaining copies can be found in 37 CFR 1.19 . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Papers Not Returned After Filing Date MPEP 719.01 Permitted Notations Required for Priority Claims MPEP 719 Papers Not Part of Record Must Not Be Entered MPEP 719.01 Recommended Original Disclosure Cannot Be Expunged Without Director’s Approval MPEP 719.01 Recommended Public Can Request Patent Application Copies MPEP 1128 Permitted Patent Application Information Must Be Kept Confidential Until Published MPEP 103 Permitted Requirement for Providing Copies of Incorporated Application Portions MPEP 103 Required Copies of International Application Files Can Be Provided Under Specific Conditions MPEP 110 Permitted Published Patent Application Not Maintained in Patent Center MPEP 1128 Copies of Application Files Only MPEP 1128 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens to papers submitted to the USPTO after they are entered into the image file wrapper? What happens to papers filed after the mailing of a Notice of Allowance in an IFW application? How are sequence listings handled in the Image File Wrapper? How are papers electron...