What is the process for entering an examiner’s action in a patent application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10

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.

According to MPEP 707.10, the process for entering an examiner’s action in a patent application is as follows:

1. Signing: The action is signed by the authorized examiner.

2. Scanning: The signed action is soft scanned into the Image File Wrapper (IFW).

3. Delivery: A copy of the action is either given electronically or mailed to the applicant.

As stated in the MPEP: The action, signed by the authorized examiner, is soft scanned into the IFW and a copy is given electronically or mailed to applicant. This process ensures that the examiner’s decision is officially recorded and communicated to the patent applicant.

Tags: examiner's action, image file wrapper, Patent Application Process, patent examination