How are patented and abandoned patent application files stored and accessed?

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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. Patented and abandoned patent application files are stored and accessed differently based on their age and format: Recently patented and abandoned paper files are stored at the Files Repository. Older files are housed in off-site warehouses. Image File Wrapper (IFW) applications are stored electronically. According to MPEP 711.04(b) : “Image File Wrapper (IFW) applications are stored electronically and do not have a paper file wrapper to be stored other than certain artifact material. The electronic file is the official record of the application.” Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Attorney Can Abandon Prior Patent Application When Filing Continuing Application MPEP 711 Permitted Express Abandonment of Patent Application MPEP 711 Permitted Abandonment of Patent Application MPEP 711 Requirement for Filing Patent Files MPEP 711.04(b) Application Must Be Explicitly Abandoned MPEP 711 Reply Required Within Time Period Otherwise Abandoned MPEP 711 Reply Required to Save Application from Abandonment MPEP 711 Required Amendments Not Saving Application from Abandonment MPEP 711 New Time Period for Inadvertently Omitted Matter in Reply to Non-Final Office Action MPEP 711 Permitted Declaration Required for Abandonment of Patent Application MPEP 711 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How are patent drawings stored and delivered with application files? What is the File Ordering System (FOS) and how is it used? What is the process for delivering requested patent files to examiners? When is it necessary to inspect previously patented or abandoned application papers? What happens if an applicant fails to respond to a request for a property rights stateme...