How can I file a petition for delayed payment of maintenance fees?

To file a petition for delayed payment of maintenance fees, follow these steps according to MPEP 2590:

  1. Use form PTO/SB/66, available on the USPTO forms website.
  2. Mark the front page of the communication “Attention: Office of Petitions”.
  3. Address the petition to:
    Mail Stop Petition
    Commissioner for Patents
    P.O. Box 1450
    Alexandria, Virginia 22313-1450
  4. Include the required maintenance fee, petition fee, and statement of unintentional delay.
  5. Ensure the petition is signed in compliance with 37 CFR 1.33(b).

Note that the EFS-Web version of the SB/66 form for auto-processing was retired on February 1, 2018. Petitions are processed by the Office of Petitions.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 2500 - Maintenance Fees, MPEP 2590 - Acceptance Of Delayed Payment Of Maintenance Fee In Expired Patent To Reinstate Patent, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: Delayed Payment, Maintenance Fees, Patent Reinstatement, Petition Filing, USPTO Forms