What are the time limitations for submitting a protest in a patent application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 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. There are specific time limitations for submitting a protest in a patent application: For unpublished applications, the protest must be submitted prior to the date the application was published or the mailing of a notice of allowance, whichever occurs first. For published applications, the protest must be submitted prior to the mailing of a notice of allowance. As stated in MPEP 1901.03 : “ A protest submitted after the mailing of a notice of allowance will not be entered and will be returned. ” It’s crucial to submit the protest within these time frames to ensure it’s considered by the USPTO. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Protest Must Be Filed Before Notice of Allowance And Have Applicant’s Consent MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Be Filed Before Notice of Allowance MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Be Submitted By Mail MPEP 1901.03 Prohibited Protest Must Be Submitted In Writing With Specific Information List MPEP 1901.03 Required Protest Must Be Submitted by Mail MPEP 1901.03 Permitted Protest Must Be Filed Before Publication Or Allowance MPEP 1901 Required First Protest Must Include Statement or Comply with Paragraph (c)(5) MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Include Specific Information and Documents MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Include Detailed Information List and Supporting Documents MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Identify Pending Application MPEP 1901.03 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can a protestor submit additional information after filing a protest? Can a protest be submitted anonymously to the USPTO? What happens if a protest is not matched with the correct application? Can a protest be submitted electronically to the USPTO? What...