How are drawing corrections handled during the Notice of Allowance process?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. Drawing corrections are an important aspect of the Notice of Allowance process. The MPEP 1303 provides specific guidance on how these corrections are handled: “If drawings are required in the application, the examiner should indicate if the formal drawings are acceptable or if corrected drawings are required.” The process for handling drawing corrections includes: The examiner assesses the acceptability of the drawings. If corrections are needed, the examiner specifies the required changes. The applicant is given a three-month period to submit corrected drawings. If the drawings are acceptable, this is noted on the Notice of Allowability (Form PTOL-37). It’s important to note that the issuance of the patent may be delayed if the required drawing corrections are not submitted in a timely manner. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Notice of Allowance Sent to Applicant MPEP 1303 Notice of Allowance and Fee(s) Due Mailed to Correspondence Address MPEP 1303 Three-Month Issue Fee Payment Period Not Extendable MPEP 1303 Publication Fee Due at Issue MPEP 1303 Required Issue Fee and Publication Fee Must Be Paid with PTOL-85B MPEP 1303 Required Publication Fee Due at Issue MPEP 1303 Publication Fee Must Be Paid If Application Was Subject to Publication MPEP 1303 Publication Fee Due at Issue MPEP 1303 Issue Fee and Publication Fee Must Be Paid Within Three Months MPEP 1303 Required Authorization to Charge Fees Must Be Filed Post-Allowance MPEP 1303 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if an amendment after allowance affects the scope of the claims? What happens if an amendment after allowance is not entered? What happens if an amendment is...