Will the USPTO mail me a paper copy of my published patent application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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.

No, the USPTO does not mail paper copies of published patent applications to applicants. According to MPEP 1127:

“The Office will not mail a paper copy of the patent application publication to the applicant, but will mail a ‘Notice of Publication’ to the applicant indicating that the application has been published when the application is published.”

Instead of receiving a paper copy, applicants can access their published patent applications online. The MPEP further states:

“Copies of patent application publications are available on the USPTO website (www.uspto.gov).”

This approach allows for more efficient and environmentally friendly distribution of published applications.

Tags: notice of publication, online access, patent application publication, USPTO