What happens if an amendment is unsigned or improperly signed?

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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. An unsigned amendment or one not properly signed by a person having authority to prosecute the application is not entered into the application. The MPEP states: An unsigned amendment or one not properly signed by a person having authority to prosecute the application is not entered. ( MPEP 714.01(a) ) The examiner will notify the applicant of the status of the application and advise them to either furnish a properly signed duplicate amendment or ratify the amendment already filed. In applications not under final rejection, applicants are typically given a two-month time period to ratify the previously filed amendment, as per 37 CFR 1.135(c) . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Examiner Will Notify Applicant of Unsigned Amendment Status MPEP 714.01(a) Two-Month Time Period for Ratifying Amendment MPEP 714.01(a) Recommended Unsigned Amendment Not Entered MPEP 714.01(a) Examiner Will Notify Applicant If After-allowance Amendment Is Not Approved For Entry MPEP 714 Examiner Will Notify Applicant If Amendment Not Approved MPEP 714 Supplemental Amendment Not Entered As Right MPEP 714 Each Section of an Amendment Must Begin on a Separate Sheet MPEP 714 Required Amendments Must Be Recorded But Not Entered MPEP 714 Prohibited Canceled and Not Entered Claims Must Be Listed by Number Only MPEP 714 Required No New Time Period for Correcting Noncompliance MPEP 714 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the significance of proper signatures in patent applications? What is the time frame for ratifying an unsigned or improperly signed amendment? What happens if an amendment is unsigned or improperly signed? How does the USPTO handle amendments signed by suspende...