What is the USPTO’s policy on email communications with patent applicants?

The USPTO has established a Patent Internet Usage Policy that governs email communications with patent applicants. According to MPEP 502.03, ‘Communications via Internet email are at the discretion of the applicant.’ However, there are specific requirements and limitations:

• A written authorization from the applicant is required for USPTO employees to communicate via email.
• All Internet communications must be made using USPTO tools.
• Without written authorization, the USPTO will not respond to Internet correspondence containing confidential information.

It’s important to note that ‘A reply to an Office action or a paper requiring a signature may NOT be communicated by applicant to the USPTO via Internet email even if written authorization is on record.’

To learn more:

• USPTO
• email communication
• patent application
• Internet policy
• confidentiality