What happens if a Notice of Abandonment is returned as undeliverable?

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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 a Notice of Abandonment is returned as undeliverable, the USPTO takes specific steps to ensure proper notification. According to MPEP 711.04(c) : When Office notices are returned by the Postal Service, they are reviewed prior to disposal. If the Office can readily determine a new address, the undelivered notice is remailed. If the Office cannot readily determine a new address, the file is reviewed for any indication of a change of address. If a change of address is found, the notice is remailed. This procedure helps ensure that applicants receive important notifications about their applications, even if their address has changed. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Requirement for Prompt Change of Address Notification MPEP 711.04(c) Petition to Withdraw Holding of Abandonment Available for Inadvertent Failures MPEP 711.04(c) Permitted 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 Express Abandonment Must Be Timely Received MPEP 711 Prohibited Written Declaration Must Be Signed by Authorized Party MPEP 711 Required Attorney Can Abandon Prior Patent Application When Filing Continuing Application MPEP 711 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the difference between a Notice of Abandonment and a Notice of Incomplete Reply? How does the USPTO handle applications abandoned due to failure to timely reply? What happen...