How can I claim entitlement to small entity status for maintenance fees?
To claim small entity status for maintenance fees, you must file a written assertion of entitlement to small entity status. According to MPEP 2550:
“In order to establish small entity status for the purpose of paying a maintenance fee, a written assertion of entitlement to small entity status must be filed prior to or with the maintenance fee paid as a small entity.”
The assertion must be filed before or with the maintenance fee payment. For more details on qualifying as a small entity and making an assertion, refer to MPEP § 509.02 and MPEP § 509.03.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2500 - Maintenance Fees,
MPEP 2550 - Entity Status Discounts,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure