Can I call the USPTO about my supplemental examination request?

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, you can call the USPTO about your supplemental examination request, but with limitations. The MPEP clarifies:

“A telephone call to the Office to confirm receipt of a request for supplemental examination, or to discuss general procedural questions, is not considered to be an interview for the purposes of this provision.”

This means you can make calls to confirm receipt of your request or ask about general procedures. However, these calls should not discuss the substance of your supplemental examination or attempt to influence its outcome.