Are there exceptions to using the PTO-892 form for citing references?
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.
Yes, there is an exception to using the PTO-892 form for citing references. The MPEP 707.05(d) states:
“…unless applicant has listed the reference on a form PTO/SB/08 that has been initialed by the examiner.”
This means that if the applicant has already listed the reference on a PTO/SB/08 form (Information Disclosure Statement) and the examiner has initialed it, indicating they have considered the reference, the examiner does not need to cite it again using the PTO-892 form.