MPEP § 2266 — Responses (Annotated Rules)

§2266 Responses

USPTO MPEP version: BlueIron's Update: 2025-12-31

This page consolidates and annotates all enforceable requirements under MPEP § 2266, including statutory authority, regulatory rules, examiner guidance, and practice notes. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only, it is not legal advice.

Responses

This section addresses Responses. Primary authority: 35 U.S.C. 2267, 37 CFR 1.111, and 37 CFR 1.104. Contains: 5 requirements, 1 prohibition, 3 permissions, and 8 other statements.

Key Rules

Topic

Ex Parte Reexamination

9 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-376ac65a3a64c7d8528bc3ec]
Patent Owner Can Extend Time for Action in Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
A patent owner may extend the time to take action in an ex parte reexamination proceeding, subject to filing a request with the appropriate fee and meeting certain conditions.
(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph.
  • (1) Any request for such an extension must specify the requested period of extension and be accompanied by the petition fee set forth in § 1.17(g).
  • (2) Any request for an extension in a third party requested ex parte reexamination must be filed on or before the day on which action by the patent owner is due, and the mere filing of such a request for extension will not effect the extension. A request for an extension in a third party requested ex parte reexamination will not be granted in the absence of sufficient cause or for more than a reasonable time.
  • (3) Any request for an extension in a patent owner requested or Director ordered ex parte reexamination for up to two months from the time period set in the Office action must be filed no later than two months from the expiration of the time period set in the Office action. A request for an extension in a patent owner requested or Director ordered ex parte reexamination for more than two months from the time period set in the Office action must be filed on or before the day on which action by the patent owner is due, and the mere filing of a request for an extension for more than two months from the time period set in the Office action will not effect the extension. The time for taking action in a patent owner requested or Director ordered ex parte reexamination will not be extended for more than two months from the time period set in the Office action in the absence of sufficient cause or for more than a reasonable time.
  • (4) The reply or other action must in any event be filed prior to the expiration of the period of extension, but in no situation may a reply or other action be filed later than the maximum time period set by statute.
  • (5) See § 90.3(c) of this title for extensions of time for filing a notice of appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit or for commencing a civil action.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Ex Parte ReexaminationNotice of Appeal FilingCivil Action
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-edd7115ab89561809b8939fa]
Request for Extension Must Be Filed On Time
Note:
A request for extension in a third party requested ex parte reexamination must be filed on or before the due date, and merely filing it does not extend the time.

(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph.

(2) Any request for an extension in a third party requested ex parte reexamination must be filed on or before the day on which action by the patent owner is due, and the mere filing of such a request for extension will not effect the extension.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Ex Parte ReexaminationMaintenance Fee PaymentPTAB Contested Case Procedures
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-997298ede84e819df4d17255]
Extension Request for Third Party Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
A request for an extension must be filed on time and has sufficient cause or a reasonable duration.

(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph.

A request for an extension in a third party requested ex parte reexamination will not be granted in the absence of sufficient cause or for more than a reasonable time.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Ex Parte ReexaminationPTAB Contested Case ProceduresMaintenance Fee Payment
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-056a414e910f9ee40d9d8ad0]
Response Requirement for Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
The rule requires that responses in ex parte reexamination proceedings must comply with specific requirements as outlined by the patent office.

Pursuant to 37 CFR 1.550(a):

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(a)Ex Parte Reexamination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-8c7c3a3a2f03e1226a4351c3]
Provisions for Patent Owner Responses in Reexamination
Note:
The rules governing patent owner responses in reexamination proceedings apply except for the time requirement to avoid abandonment.

Accordingly, the provisions of 37 CFR 1.111, other than the provision in 37 CFR 1.111(a)(1) to “see… [37 CFR] 1.136 for time for reply to avoid abandonment”, apply to the response by a patent owner in a reexamination proceeding.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Ex Parte Reexamination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-e88835dc3fc79a7242e10211]
Timely Response Required for Reexamination
Note:
Patent owner must file a timely and appropriate response to Office actions; failure leads to termination of reexamination unless the response is not fully responsive or informal.

If the patent owner fails to file a timely and appropriate response to any Office action, the prosecution of the reexamination proceeding will be terminated, unless the response is “not fully responsive” as defined in MPEP § 2266.01 or is an “informal submission” as defined in MPEP § 2266.02. After the prosecution of the proceeding is terminated, the Director will proceed to issue and publish a reexamination certificate.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Ex Parte ReexaminationReexamination CertificateConclusion of Ex Parte Reexamination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-e21ed2cd3499eb542bddeb80]
Supplemental Response Not Entitled As Matter of Right
Note:
A response that is supplemental to a compliant initial response cannot be automatically entered; it may only be approved by the examiner under specific conditions.

Pursuant to 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2), a response that is supplemental to a response that is in compliance with 37 CFR 1.111(b) will not be entered as a matter of right. The Office may enter a supplemental response if the supplemental response is clearly limited to: (A) cancellation of a claim(s); (B) adoption of the examiner suggestion(s); (C) placement of the proceeding in condition for Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC); (D) a response to an Office requirement made after the first response was filed; (E) correction of informalities (e.g., typographical errors); or (F) simplification of issues for appeal. When a supplemental response is filed in sufficient time to be entered into the reexamination proceeding before the examiner considers the prior response, the examiner may approve the entry of a supplemental response if, after a cursory review, the examiner determines that the supplemental response is limited to meeting one or more of the conditions set forth in 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)(i).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)Ex Parte ReexaminationNotice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC)Reexamination Certificate
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-bf0a6727772c6cf599e47f6d]
Supplemental Response Before Examiner Review
Note:
Allows a supplemental response if filed in time and limited to specific conditions before the examiner reviews the prior response.

Pursuant to 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2), a response that is supplemental to a response that is in compliance with 37 CFR 1.111(b) will not be entered as a matter of right. The Office may enter a supplemental response if the supplemental response is clearly limited to: (A) cancellation of a claim(s); (B) adoption of the examiner suggestion(s); (C) placement of the proceeding in condition for Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC); (D) a response to an Office requirement made after the first response was filed; (E) correction of informalities (e.g., typographical errors); or (F) simplification of issues for appeal. When a supplemental response is filed in sufficient time to be entered into the reexamination proceeding before the examiner considers the prior response, the examiner may approve the entry of a supplemental response if, after a cursory review, the examiner determines that the supplemental response is limited to meeting one or more of the conditions set forth in 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)(i).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)Ex Parte ReexaminationNotice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC)Reexamination Certificate
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-2266-3ddbc4ff9757346c9dbe390e]
Ads Not Allowed In Reexamination
Note:
Patent owner is not permitted to submit an application data sheet in a reexamination proceeding unless specified by MPEP § 2258.02.

Patent owner cannot submit an application data sheet (ADS) in a reexamination proceeding except as provided in MPEP § 2258.02.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Ex Parte Reexamination
Topic

Types of Office Actions

5 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-3aebd6bbaf722a110c536b2d]
Requirement for Responding to Examiner's Actions
Note:
The applicant or patent owner must reply in writing, addressing all objections and rejections, to be eligible for reconsideration or further examination.

(b) In order to be entitled to reconsideration or further examination, the applicant or patent owner must reply to the Office action. The reply by the applicant or patent owner must be reduced to a writing which distinctly and specifically points out the supposed errors in the examiner’s action and must reply to every ground of objection and rejection in the prior Office action. The reply must present arguments pointing out the specific distinctions believed to render the claims, including any newly presented claims, patentable over any applied references. If the reply is with respect to an application, a request may be made that objections or requirements as to form not necessary to further consideration of the claims be held in abeyance until allowable subject matter is indicated. The applicant’s or patent owner’s reply must appear throughout to be a bona fide attempt to advance the application or the reexamination proceeding to final action. A general allegation that the claims define a patentable invention without specifically pointing out how the language of the claims patentably distinguishes them from the references does not comply with the requirements of this section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Types of Office ActionsExamination in ReexaminationReexamination Order
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-4c8dbae5f226548d0db3e114]
Patent Owner Must Respond to Office Actions Within Thirty Days
Note:
The patent owner must respond to any Office action within thirty days, including further statements and/or proposed amendments or new claims to make all claims patentable.

(b) The patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding will be given at least thirty days to respond to any Office action. In response to any rejection, such response may include further statements and/or proposed amendments or new claims to place the patent in a condition where all claims, if amended as proposed, would be patentable.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Types of Office ActionsResponse to Office Action Requirements (37 CFR 1.111)Examination in Reexamination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-7717d6696eb353e018a77b84]
2 Months to Respond to Office Action
Note:
Patent owners are typically given 2 months to respond to an Office action, with extensions available under specific conditions.

The patent owner will normally be given a period of 2 months to respond to the Office action. An extension of time can be obtained only in accordance with 37 CFR 1.550(c). Note that 37 CFR 1.136 does not apply in reexamination proceedings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(c)Types of Office ActionsResponse to Office Action Requirements (37 CFR 1.111)Examination in Reexamination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-732cd72bd4d995dce8f09683]
Unentered Supplemental Response Not Considered
Note:
A supplemental response not approved for entry cannot be considered when a response to a subsequent Office action is filed, even if requested in the response.

A supplemental response, which has not been approved for entry, will not be entered when a response to a subsequent Office action is filed, even if there is a specific request for its entry in the subsequent response. If a patent owner wishes to have the unentered supplemental response considered by the examiner, the patent owner must include the contents of the unentered supplemental response in a proper response to a subsequent Office action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Types of Office ActionsResponse to Office Action Requirements (37 CFR 1.111)Examination in Reexamination
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-afe135380d92cabc4025f524]
Unentered Supplemental Response Must Be Included in Response
Note:
If a patent owner wants the examiner to consider an unentered supplemental response, they must include its contents in their next proper response.

A supplemental response, which has not been approved for entry, will not be entered when a response to a subsequent Office action is filed, even if there is a specific request for its entry in the subsequent response. If a patent owner wishes to have the unentered supplemental response considered by the examiner, the patent owner must include the contents of the unentered supplemental response in a proper response to a subsequent Office action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Types of Office ActionsResponse to Office Action Requirements (37 CFR 1.111)Examination in Reexamination
Topic

Reexamination Certificate

3 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-c2bd9a167a94859bca8fa9e3]
Ex Parte Reexamination Examination Conducted According to Specific Sections
Note:
After the ex parte reexamination order is issued and responses are submitted, the examination will follow specific sections and result in an ex parte reexamination certificate.

(a) All ex parte reexamination proceedings, including any appeals to the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences, will be conducted with special dispatch within the Office. After issuance of the ex parte reexamination order and expiration of the time for submitting any responses, the examination will be conducted in accordance with §§ 1.104 through 1.116 and will result in the issuance of an ex parte reexamination certificate under § 1.570.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.104Reexamination CertificateConclusion of Ex Parte ReexaminationReexamination Order
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-86453bde7efcf2d67a87c50b]
Timely Response Required for Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
Patent owner must file a timely and appropriate response to Office actions or interview statements; failure results in terminated prosecution and issuance of reexamination certificate.

(d) If the patent owner fails to file a timely and appropriate response to any Office action or any written statement of an interview required under § 1.560(b), the prosecution in the ex parte reexamination proceeding will be a terminated prosecution, and the Director will proceed to issue and publish a certificate concluding the reexamination proceeding under § 1.570 in accordance with the last action of the Office.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.560(b)Reexamination CertificateInterviews in ReexaminationConclusion of Ex Parte Reexamination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-b95979a39c1d93f4bb207090]
Director Issues Reexamination Certificate After Proceeding Termination
Note:
The Director will issue and publish a reexamination certificate after the prosecution of the proceeding is terminated.

If the patent owner fails to file a timely and appropriate response to any Office action, the prosecution of the reexamination proceeding will be terminated, unless the response is “not fully responsive” as defined in MPEP § 2266.01 or is an “informal submission” as defined in MPEP § 2266.02. After the prosecution of the proceeding is terminated, the Director will proceed to issue and publish a reexamination certificate.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Reexamination CertificateConclusion of Ex Parte ReexaminationEx Parte Reexamination
Topic

Response Time Periods

3 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-3d8fcea6e48e4395ae3060f4]
Extension Request for Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
Patent owners must file extension requests within two months of the Office action's time period.

(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph.

(3) Any request for an extension in a patent owner requested or Director ordered ex parte reexamination for up to two months from the time period set in the Office action must be filed no later than two months from the expiration of the time period set in the Office action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Response Time PeriodsExamination in ReexaminationReexamination Order
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-14653027f2ab92cb4e993c8f]
Request for Extension Must Be Timely Filed
Note:
A request for extension in a patent owner requested or Director ordered ex parte reexamination must be filed on or before the due date if more than two months from the Office action time period.

(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph.

A request for an extension in a patent owner requested or Director ordered ex parte reexamination for more than two months from the time period set in the Office action must be filed on or before the day on which action by the patent owner is due, and the mere filing of a request for an extension for more than two months from the time period set in the Office action will not effect the extension.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Response Time PeriodsExamination in ReexaminationReexamination Order
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-7b79f35146e0bb3cbae53061]
Time for Patent Owner Action in Ex Parte Reexamination Cannot Be Extended Beyond Two Months Without Sufficient Cause
Note:
The time for a patent owner to respond in an ex parte reexamination cannot be extended beyond two months from the Office action date unless sufficient cause is shown.

(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph.

The time for taking action in a patent owner requested or Director ordered ex parte reexamination will not be extended for more than two months from the time period set in the Office action in the absence of sufficient cause or for more than a reasonable time.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Response Time PeriodsExamination in ReexaminationReexamination Order
Topic

Third Party Requester Rights

3 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-e9dcc6e6f9f16bc4cf424018]
Requester Receives Office Actions During Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
The reexamination requester will receive copies of all Office actions issued during the ex parte reexamination proceeding.

(f) The reexamination requester will be sent copies of Office actions issued during the ex parte reexamination proceeding. After filing of a request for ex parte reexamination by a third party requester, any document filed by either the patent owner or the third party requester must be served on the other party in the reexamination proceeding in the manner provided by § 1.248. The document must reflect service or the document may be refused consideration by the Office.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.248Third Party Requester RightsInter Partes Reexamination RequestInter Partes Reexamination
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-0af06136a7cd76ab59852256]
Documents Filed Must Be Served on Other Party
Note:
Any document filed by either the patent owner or third party requester in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must be served on the other party according to §1.248.

(f) The reexamination requester will be sent copies of Office actions issued during the ex parte reexamination proceeding. After filing of a request for ex parte reexamination by a third party requester, any document filed by either the patent owner or the third party requester must be served on the other party in the reexamination proceeding in the manner provided by § 1.248. The document must reflect service or the document may be refused consideration by the Office.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.248Third Party Requester RightsInter Partes Reexamination RequestInter Partes Reexamination
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-8bb8b444460eb61f78e8a949]
Document Must Reflect Service For Consideration
Note:
Any document filed by a third party requester in ex parte reexamination must reflect service on the patent owner; otherwise, it may be refused consideration by the Office.

(f) The reexamination requester will be sent copies of Office actions issued during the ex parte reexamination proceeding. After filing of a request for ex parte reexamination by a third party requester, any document filed by either the patent owner or the third party requester must be served on the other party in the reexamination proceeding in the manner provided by § 1.248. The document must reflect service or the document may be refused consideration by the Office.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.248Third Party Requester RightsInter Partes Reexamination RequestInter Partes Reexamination
Topic

Non-Final Office Action

2 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-956d98090b45a7ad56b5bad7]
Claims Must Specifically Distinguish Over References
Note:
The reply must distinctly and specifically point out how the claims patentably distinguish from the references to be considered.

(b) In order to be entitled to reconsideration or further examination, the applicant or patent owner must reply to the Office action. The reply by the applicant or patent owner must be reduced to a writing which distinctly and specifically points out the supposed errors in the examiner’s action and must reply to every ground of objection and rejection in the prior Office action. The reply must present arguments pointing out the specific distinctions believed to render the claims, including any newly presented claims, patentable over any applied references. If the reply is with respect to an application, a request may be made that objections or requirements as to form not necessary to further consideration of the claims be held in abeyance until allowable subject matter is indicated. The applicant’s or patent owner’s reply must appear throughout to be a bona fide attempt to advance the application or the reexamination proceeding to final action. A general allegation that the claims define a patentable invention without specifically pointing out how the language of the claims patentably distinguishes them from the references does not comply with the requirements of this section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Non-Final Office ActionNon-Final Action ContentFirst Office Action on Merits
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-a783155993fa372c79d8914f]
Amendments Must Avoid Cited References
Note:
The applicant or patent owner must show how the amendments address and avoid the cited references or objections in response to a non-final Office action.

(c) In amending in reply to a rejection of claims in an application or patent under reexamination, the applicant or patent owner must clearly point out the patentable novelty which he or she thinks the claims present in view of the state of the art disclosed by the references cited or the objections made. The applicant or patent owner must also show how the amendments avoid such references or objections.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Non-Final Office ActionNon-Final Action ContentTypes of Office Actions
Topic

Reexamination Order

2 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-0a62aec9c5a6190debccba3f]
Submissions by Third Parties After Ex Parte Reexamination Order Must Meet §1.501(a) Requirements
Note:
Submissions by third parties filed after the ex parte reexamination order must comply with the requirements of §1.501(a).

(h) Submissions by third parties, filed after the date of the order for ex parte reexamination pursuant to § 1.525, must meet the requirements of and will be treated in accordance with § 1.501(a).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.525Reexamination OrderEx Parte Reexamination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-eb4e3a05aef38f1ccabb43f6]
Ex Parte Reexamination Examination Conducted According to Specific Sections
Note:
The examination will proceed according to sections 1.104 through 1.116 after the ex parte reexamination order is issued and any responses are submitted.

“After issuance of the ex parte reexamination order and expiration of the time for submitting any responses, the examination will be conducted in accordance with §§ 1.104 through 1.116…”

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.104Reexamination OrderStatutory Authority for ExaminationEx Parte Reexamination
Topic

Estoppel After Judgment

2 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-ae39d2503e52c8222162278c]
Patent Owner May Not File Third Party Paper in Response
Note:
The patent owner is prohibited from including a third party's paper in their response to an ex parte reexamination proceeding.

The patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must not file papers on behalf of a third party. 37 CFR 1.550(g). If a third party paper accompanies, or is submitted as part of a timely filed response, the response and the third party paper are considered to be an improper submission under 37 CFR 1.550(g), and the entire submission shall be returned to the patent owner, since the Office will not determine which portion of the submission is the third party paper. The third party paper will not be considered. The decision returning the improper response and the third party paper should provide an appropriate extension of time under 37 CFR 1.550(c), if prior to a final rejection, to refile the patent owner response without the third party paper. See MPEP § 2254 and § 2267.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(g)Estoppel After JudgmentPTAB JurisdictionPTAB Contested Case Procedures
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-2266-dab426018cf0ae002352b3e8]
Extension for Refiling Without Third Party Paper
Note:
If a third party paper is included in an improper response before final rejection, the patent owner should be given an extension to refile without it.

The patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must not file papers on behalf of a third party. 37 CFR 1.550(g). If a third party paper accompanies, or is submitted as part of a timely filed response, the response and the third party paper are considered to be an improper submission under 37 CFR 1.550(g), and the entire submission shall be returned to the patent owner, since the Office will not determine which portion of the submission is the third party paper. The third party paper will not be considered. The decision returning the improper response and the third party paper should provide an appropriate extension of time under 37 CFR 1.550(c), if prior to a final rejection, to refile the patent owner response without the third party paper. See MPEP § 2254 and § 2267.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(g)Estoppel After JudgmentPTAB Contested Case ProceduresPTAB Jurisdiction
Topic

PTAB Contested Case Procedures

2 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-91109468bcb13eafc2b74c24]
Third Party Paper Submission Prohibited In Timely Response
Note:
A third party paper submitted with a timely response is considered improper and will be returned to the patent owner.

The patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must not file papers on behalf of a third party. 37 CFR 1.550(g). If a third party paper accompanies, or is submitted as part of a timely filed response, the response and the third party paper are considered to be an improper submission under 37 CFR 1.550(g), and the entire submission shall be returned to the patent owner, since the Office will not determine which portion of the submission is the third party paper. The third party paper will not be considered. The decision returning the improper response and the third party paper should provide an appropriate extension of time under 37 CFR 1.550(c), if prior to a final rejection, to refile the patent owner response without the third party paper. See MPEP § 2254 and § 2267.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(g)PTAB Contested Case ProceduresEstoppel After JudgmentPTAB Jurisdiction
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-bcbb6d7e2ccf08c9ec6db1d1]
Third Party Paper Not Considered In Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
Patent owner responses must not include third party papers; any submission with a third party paper will be returned and an extension of time may be granted.

The patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must not file papers on behalf of a third party. 37 CFR 1.550(g). If a third party paper accompanies, or is submitted as part of a timely filed response, the response and the third party paper are considered to be an improper submission under 37 CFR 1.550(g), and the entire submission shall be returned to the patent owner, since the Office will not determine which portion of the submission is the third party paper. The third party paper will not be considered. The decision returning the improper response and the third party paper should provide an appropriate extension of time under 37 CFR 1.550(c), if prior to a final rejection, to refile the patent owner response without the third party paper. See MPEP § 2254 and § 2267.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(g)PTAB Contested Case ProceduresEstoppel After JudgmentPTAB Jurisdiction
Topic

Non-Final Action Content

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-f53bb9f348ce25c689f7bf9d]
Reply Must Address All Objections
Note:
The applicant’s response must clearly identify errors in the examiner's action and address every ground of objection and rejection from the prior Office action.

(b) In order to be entitled to reconsideration or further examination, the applicant or patent owner must reply to the Office action. The reply by the applicant or patent owner must be reduced to a writing which distinctly and specifically points out the supposed errors in the examiner’s action and must reply to every ground of objection and rejection in the prior Office action. The reply must present arguments pointing out the specific distinctions believed to render the claims, including any newly presented claims, patentable over any applied references. If the reply is with respect to an application, a request may be made that objections or requirements as to form not necessary to further consideration of the claims be held in abeyance until allowable subject matter is indicated. The applicant’s or patent owner’s reply must appear throughout to be a bona fide attempt to advance the application or the reexamination proceeding to final action. A general allegation that the claims define a patentable invention without specifically pointing out how the language of the claims patentably distinguishes them from the references does not comply with the requirements of this section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Non-Final Action ContentTypes of Office ActionsRejection vs. Objection
Topic

Office Actions and Responses

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-20685b20048edfe4d3875219]
Reply Must Distinguish Claims Over References
Note:
The applicant must reply to the Office action by distinctly pointing out how claims, including new ones, are patentable over applied references.

(b) In order to be entitled to reconsideration or further examination, the applicant or patent owner must reply to the Office action. The reply by the applicant or patent owner must be reduced to a writing which distinctly and specifically points out the supposed errors in the examiner’s action and must reply to every ground of objection and rejection in the prior Office action. The reply must present arguments pointing out the specific distinctions believed to render the claims, including any newly presented claims, patentable over any applied references. If the reply is with respect to an application, a request may be made that objections or requirements as to form not necessary to further consideration of the claims be held in abeyance until allowable subject matter is indicated. The applicant’s or patent owner’s reply must appear throughout to be a bona fide attempt to advance the application or the reexamination proceeding to final action. A general allegation that the claims define a patentable invention without specifically pointing out how the language of the claims patentably distinguishes them from the references does not comply with the requirements of this section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Office Actions and ResponsesNon-Final Office ActionNon-Final Action Content
Topic

Statement of Reasons for Allowance

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-0849ccb848817b9c2140f130]
Objections to Form Can Be Held in Abeyance Until Allowable Subject Matter is Indicated
Note:
An applicant may request that objections or form requirements not necessary for further claims consideration be deferred until allowable subject matter is indicated.

(b) In order to be entitled to reconsideration or further examination, the applicant or patent owner must reply to the Office action. The reply by the applicant or patent owner must be reduced to a writing which distinctly and specifically points out the supposed errors in the examiner’s action and must reply to every ground of objection and rejection in the prior Office action. The reply must present arguments pointing out the specific distinctions believed to render the claims, including any newly presented claims, patentable over any applied references. If the reply is with respect to an application, a request may be made that objections or requirements as to form not necessary to further consideration of the claims be held in abeyance until allowable subject matter is indicated. The applicant’s or patent owner’s reply must appear throughout to be a bona fide attempt to advance the application or the reexamination proceeding to final action. A general allegation that the claims define a patentable invention without specifically pointing out how the language of the claims patentably distinguishes them from the references does not comply with the requirements of this section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Statement of Reasons for AllowanceRejection vs. ObjectionReasons for Allowance
Topic

Final Office Action

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-618363e9c5ba9b6c434f6ab1]
Reply Must Advance Application
Note:
The applicant’s reply must genuinely attempt to advance the application or reexamination proceeding to final action.

(b) In order to be entitled to reconsideration or further examination, the applicant or patent owner must reply to the Office action. The reply by the applicant or patent owner must be reduced to a writing which distinctly and specifically points out the supposed errors in the examiner’s action and must reply to every ground of objection and rejection in the prior Office action. The reply must present arguments pointing out the specific distinctions believed to render the claims, including any newly presented claims, patentable over any applied references. If the reply is with respect to an application, a request may be made that objections or requirements as to form not necessary to further consideration of the claims be held in abeyance until allowable subject matter is indicated. The applicant’s or patent owner’s reply must appear throughout to be a bona fide attempt to advance the application or the reexamination proceeding to final action. A general allegation that the claims define a patentable invention without specifically pointing out how the language of the claims patentably distinguishes them from the references does not comply with the requirements of this section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Final Office ActionFinal Rejection in ReexaminationTypes of Office Actions
Topic

Combining Multiple References

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-116a43fa62a51a96d3543a42]
Claim Amendments Must Show Patentable Novelty
Note:
The applicant must clearly demonstrate how the amended claims present patentable novelty in response to rejections, addressing cited references or objections.

(c) In amending in reply to a rejection of claims in an application or patent under reexamination, the applicant or patent owner must clearly point out the patentable novelty which he or she thinks the claims present in view of the state of the art disclosed by the references cited or the objections made. The applicant or patent owner must also show how the amendments avoid such references or objections.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111Combining Multiple ReferencesNon-Final Action ContentCitation of References (MPEP 707.05)
Topic

Appeals in Reexamination

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-043918918cdb64b75826db76]
Ex Parte Reexamination Proceedings Conducted with Special Dispatch
Note:
All ex parte reexamination proceedings, including appeals to the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences, must be conducted promptly within the Office.

(a) All ex parte reexamination proceedings, including any appeals to the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences, will be conducted with special dispatch within the Office. After issuance of the ex parte reexamination order and expiration of the time for submitting any responses, the examination will be conducted in accordance with §§ 1.104 through 1.116 and will result in the issuance of an ex parte reexamination certificate under § 1.570.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.104Appeals in ReexaminationPTAB JurisdictionEx Parte Reexamination
Topic

Processing Fees

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-b2e6fc82eafd702eeb23395d]
Request for Extension of Time Must Include Fee
Note:
A request to extend time for taking action in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must specify the requested extension period and include the required fee.

(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph. (1) Any request for such an extension must specify the requested period of extension and be accompanied by the petition fee set forth in § 1.17(g).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Processing FeesFee RequirementsEx Parte Reexamination
Topic

Patent Term Expiration

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-fbd0d2a09a49fad007ebe9d4]
Reply Must Be Filed Before Extension Expiration
Note:
A reply or other action must be filed before the period of extension expires and cannot exceed the maximum statutory time limit.

(c) The time for taking any action by a patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding may be extended as provided in this paragraph.

(4) The reply or other action must in any event be filed prior to the expiration of the period of extension, but in no situation may a reply or other action be filed later than the maximum time period set by statute.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550Patent Term ExpirationPatent TermEx Parte Reexamination
Topic

Unintentional Delay Standard

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-a51fa2f0fafd3f4e9f5ee637]
Petition to Revive Unintentionally Late Response in Reexamination
Note:
Allows filing a petition under §1.137 to revive reexamination prosecution if the patent owner's late response was unintentional.

(e) If a response by the patent owner is not timely filed in the Office, a petition may be filed pursuant to § 1.137 to revive a reexamination prosecution terminated under paragraph (d) of this section if the delay in response was unintentional.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.137Unintentional Delay StandardRevival of Abandoned ApplicationAbandonment & Revival
Topic

Third Party Requester

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-a2bfc3437fd49f379163c4e0]
No Further Submissions After Ex Parte Reply
Note:
Submissions from third parties are only accepted if they comply with specific requirements and were filed before the ex parte reexamination order.
(g) The active participation of the ex parte reexamination requester ends with the reply pursuant to § 1.535, and no further submissions on behalf of the reexamination requester will be acknowledged or considered. Further, no submissions on behalf of any third parties will be acknowledged or considered unless such submissions are:
  • (1) in accordance with § 1.510 or § 1.535; or
  • (2) entered in the patent file prior to the date of the order for ex parte reexamination pursuant to § 1.525.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.535Third Party RequesterThird Party Requester ReplyEx Parte Reexamination
Topic

Petition for Delayed Benefit Claim

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-b4a3f064a160e44a834f277e]
Fee Required for Petitions Except Specific Cases
Note:
A fee must be paid with a petition in an ex parte reexamination proceeding, except for certain types of petitions.

(i) A petition in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must be accompanied by the fee set forth in § 1.20(c)(6) except for petitions under paragraph (c) of this section to extend the period for response by a patent owner, petitions under paragraph (e) of this section to accept a delayed response by a patent owner, petitions under § 1.78 to accept an unintentionally delayed benefit claim, and petitions under § 1.530(l) for correction of inventorship in a reexamination proceeding.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.20(c)(6)Petition for Delayed Benefit ClaimUnintentional Delay StandardPatent Owner Statement
Topic

Certificate of Mailing

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-760c3da0e2a72190c68bb978]
Certificate of Mailing and Priority Mail Express for Ex Parte Reexamination Responses
Note:
Permits filing responses in pending ex parte reexamination proceedings via certificate of mailing or Priority Mail Express.

The certificate of mailing and certificate of transmission procedures (37 CFR 1.8), and the Priority Mail Express® mailing procedure (37 CFR 1.10), may be used to file any response in a pending ex parte reexamination proceeding.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.8)Certificate of MailingReexamination Certificate
Topic

Interviews in Reexamination

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2266-8a5fb304e0a9ba1ab5e01992]
Patent Owner Must Serve Response to Third Party
Note:
The patent owner is required to provide a copy of any response made during the reexamination proceeding to the third party requester.

The patent owner is required to serve a copy of any response made in the reexamination proceeding on the third party requester. 37 CFR 1.550(f). See MPEP § 2266.03 for service of patent owner responses to an Office action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(f)Interviews in ReexaminationResponses and AmendmentsThird Party Requester Rights
Topic

Office Actions in Reexamination

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-4bb85539874b69366d60c8ed]
Patent Owner Must Serve Response to Reexamination Requester
Note:
The patent owner is required to provide a copy of their response in the reexamination proceeding to the third party requester.

The patent owner is required to serve a copy of any response made in the reexamination proceeding on the third party requester. 37 CFR 1.550(f). See MPEP § 2266.03 for service of patent owner responses to an Office action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(f)Office Actions in ReexaminationResponses and AmendmentsExamination in Reexamination
Topic

Reply Period and Extensions

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-73d74c7180fe9e6171926ad8]
Extension of Time for Response Must Follow 37 CFR 1.550(c)
Note:
An extension to respond to an Office action can only be obtained by following the requirements in 37 CFR 1.550(c).

The patent owner will normally be given a period of 2 months to respond to the Office action. An extension of time can be obtained only in accordance with 37 CFR 1.550(c). Note that 37 CFR 1.136 does not apply in reexamination proceedings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(c)Reply Period and ExtensionsExtension of Time (37 CFR 1.136)Ex Parte Reexamination
Topic

Extension of Time (37 CFR 1.136)

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2266-2d1ebe963c3abc9c8a4ccf9e]
Extension of Time Not Allowed in Reexamination
Note:
Patent owners cannot request an extension of time to respond to Office actions during reexamination proceedings.

The patent owner will normally be given a period of 2 months to respond to the Office action. An extension of time can be obtained only in accordance with 37 CFR 1.550(c). Note that 37 CFR 1.136 does not apply in reexamination proceedings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(c)Extension of Time (37 CFR 1.136)Ex Parte ReexaminationReply Period and Extensions
Topic

Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC)

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2266-4017b83a2ed9b1ba72b8466c]
Supplemental Response Must Meet Specific Conditions
Note:
The Office may enter a supplemental response if it is limited to specific actions such as claim cancellation, adopting examiner suggestions, or correcting informalities.

Pursuant to 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2), a response that is supplemental to a response that is in compliance with 37 CFR 1.111(b) will not be entered as a matter of right. The Office may enter a supplemental response if the supplemental response is clearly limited to: (A) cancellation of a claim(s); (B) adoption of the examiner suggestion(s); (C) placement of the proceeding in condition for Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC); (D) a response to an Office requirement made after the first response was filed; (E) correction of informalities (e.g., typographical errors); or (F) simplification of issues for appeal. When a supplemental response is filed in sufficient time to be entered into the reexamination proceeding before the examiner considers the prior response, the examiner may approve the entry of a supplemental response if, after a cursory review, the examiner determines that the supplemental response is limited to meeting one or more of the conditions set forth in 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)(i).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC)Reexamination CertificateAppeals in Reexamination
Topic

PTAB Jurisdiction

1 rules
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-2266-8b8c6167e75497c42267f3dd]
Patent Owner May Not File for Third Party in Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
The patent owner is not allowed to file papers on behalf of a third party during an ex parte reexamination, and any such submission will be returned without consideration.

The patent owner in an ex parte reexamination proceeding must not file papers on behalf of a third party. 37 CFR 1.550(g). If a third party paper accompanies, or is submitted as part of a timely filed response, the response and the third party paper are considered to be an improper submission under 37 CFR 1.550(g), and the entire submission shall be returned to the patent owner, since the Office will not determine which portion of the submission is the third party paper. The third party paper will not be considered. The decision returning the improper response and the third party paper should provide an appropriate extension of time under 37 CFR 1.550(c), if prior to a final rejection, to refile the patent owner response without the third party paper. See MPEP § 2254 and § 2267.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.550(g)PTAB JurisdictionPTAB Contested Case ProceduresEstoppel After Judgment

Citations

Primary topicCitation
Estoppel After Judgment
PTAB Contested Case Procedures
PTAB Jurisdiction
35 U.S.C. § 2267
Certificate of Mailing37 CFR § 1.10
Appeals in Reexamination
Reexamination Certificate
Reexamination Order
37 CFR § 1.104
Ex Parte Reexamination37 CFR § 1.111
Ex Parte Reexamination37 CFR § 1.111(a)(1)
Ex Parte Reexamination
Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC)
37 CFR § 1.111(a)(2)
Ex Parte Reexamination
Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC)
37 CFR § 1.111(a)(2)(i)
Ex Parte Reexamination
Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC)
37 CFR § 1.111(b)
Extension of Time (37 CFR 1.136)
Reply Period and Extensions
Types of Office Actions
37 CFR § 1.136
Unintentional Delay Standard37 CFR § 1.137
Ex Parte Reexamination
Processing Fees
37 CFR § 1.17(g)
Petition for Delayed Benefit Claim37 CFR § 1.20(c)(6)
Third Party Requester Rights37 CFR § 1.248
Reexamination Order37 CFR § 1.501(a)
Third Party Requester37 CFR § 1.510
Reexamination Order
Third Party Requester
37 CFR § 1.525
Petition for Delayed Benefit Claim37 CFR § 1.530(l)
Third Party Requester37 CFR § 1.535
Ex Parte Reexamination37 CFR § 1.550(a)
Estoppel After Judgment
Extension of Time (37 CFR 1.136)
PTAB Contested Case Procedures
PTAB Jurisdiction
Reply Period and Extensions
Types of Office Actions
37 CFR § 1.550(c)
Interviews in Reexamination
Office Actions in Reexamination
37 CFR § 1.550(f)
Estoppel After Judgment
PTAB Contested Case Procedures
PTAB Jurisdiction
37 CFR § 1.550(g)
Reexamination Certificate37 CFR § 1.560(b)
Appeals in Reexamination
Reexamination Certificate
37 CFR § 1.570
Petition for Delayed Benefit Claim37 CFR § 1.78
Certificate of Mailing37 CFR § 1.8
Ex Parte Reexamination37 CFR § 90.3(c)
Estoppel After Judgment
PTAB Contested Case Procedures
PTAB Jurisdiction
MPEP § 2254
Ex Parte ReexaminationMPEP § 2258.02
Ex Parte Reexamination
Reexamination Certificate
MPEP § 2266.01
Ex Parte Reexamination
Reexamination Certificate
MPEP § 2266.02
Interviews in Reexamination
Office Actions in Reexamination
MPEP § 2266.03

Source Text from USPTO’s MPEP

This is an exact copy of the MPEP from the USPTO. It is here for your reference to see the section in context.

BlueIron Last Updated: 2025-12-31