MPEP § 2809 — Items of Information (Annotated Rules)

§2809 Items of Information

USPTO MPEP version: BlueIron's Update: 2026-01-17

This page consolidates and annotates all enforceable requirements under MPEP § 2809, 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.

Items of Information

This section addresses Items of Information. Primary authority: 35 U.S.C. 101, 35 U.S.C. 103, and 35 U.S.C. 102. Contains: 7 requirements, 3 prohibitions, 1 guidance statement, 5 permissions, and 5 other statements.

Key Rules

Topic

Request Content Requirements

21 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-1132d7ed66c5f1f1caf65732]
Item of Information Must Be in Writing
Note:
Any audio or video recording must be submitted as a written transcript.

(c) An item of information must be in writing in accordance with § 1.2. To be considered, any audio or video recording must be submitted in the form of a written transcript.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.2Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-92d26e117d03fe5efcbac44f]
Each Item of Information May Be Separately Counted in Combination
Note:
When multiple items of information are combined in a request, each item can be counted individually unless it includes a non-English translation or a document over 50 pages with its summary.

(d) If one item of information is combined in the request with one or more additional items of information, each item of information of the combination may be separately counted. Exceptions include the combination of a non-English language document and its translation, and the combination of a document that is over 50 pages in length and its summary pursuant to § 1.610(b)(8).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.610(b)(8)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-6e24add6687f52461b81a174]
Requirement for Supplemental Examination Request Content
Note:
Patent owners must submit documents believed to be relevant and request the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct them in a supplemental examination request.

An "item of information" includes a document submitted as part of a supplemental examination request that contains information believed to be relevant to the patent, that the patent owner is requesting the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct. See 37 CFR 1.605(b). Patent owners are encouraged to draft the supplemental examination request to clearly and consistently set forth the items of information the patent owner wishes the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(b)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-be0e5b4c8c3e04536f95a330]
Multiple Supplemental Examination Requests Permitted
Note:
Patent owners can file multiple requests for supplemental examination of the same patent, each including up to twelve additional items of information, without being limited by the initial twelve-item limit.

Each request for supplemental examination may include no more than twelve items of information believed to be relevant to the patent. See 37 CFR 1.605(a). 37 CFR 1.605(a) also permits the filing of more than one request for supplemental examination of the same patent at any time during the period of enforceability of the patent. Therefore, patent owner is not precluded from obtaining review of any item of information despite the twelve-item limit, because the patent owner may file one or more additional requests for supplemental examination of the same patent sequentially or at the same time, each of which may include up to twelve additional items of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(a)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesStatutory Authority for Examination
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-1d1522bf5414bead748c6a49]
Item of Information Must Be In Writing
Note:
An item of information submitted as part of a request must be in written form, unless contained within the body of the request.

An item of information must be in writing. In most cases, an "item of information" is a separate document submitted as part of the request. Under certain conditions, however, an “item of information” may be contained within the body of the request.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-c06dc4e8d2e9e8f8b17a8e15]
Item of Information Must Be in Writing
Note:
An item of information for a request must be submitted as a separate document and must be in writing.

An item of information must be in writing. In most cases, an "item of information" is a separate document submitted as part of the request. Under certain conditions, however, an “item of information” may be contained within the body of the request.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-5852f743a79189e69e95561b]
Item of Information May Be Included in Request Body
Note:
An item of information can be included within the body of a request under certain conditions, even if it is not submitted as a separate document.

An item of information must be in writing. In most cases, an "item of information" is a separate document submitted as part of the request. Under certain conditions, however, an “item of information” may be contained within the body of the request.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-b41b70d0af09624583319083]
Transcript Required for Video Submissions
Note:
An audio or video recording must be submitted as a written transcript along with selected images and their correlation to the video.

37 CFR 1.605(c) requires that an item of information must be in writing in accordance with 37 CFR 1.2. The Office does not currently have the capability of retaining records in unwritten form. For this reason, any audio or video recording must be submitted in the form of a written transcript in order to be considered. A transcript of a video may be submitted together with copies of selected images of the video, and a discussion of the correlation between the transcript and the copies of the video images. See also MPEP § 2807 regarding the format requirements for papers submitted in a supplemental examination proceeding.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(c)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-2ff7f50702f2583548055218]
Requirement for Separate Document Containing Relevant Information
Note:
An item of information must be submitted as a separate document if it contains relevant information that the patent owner wants the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct.

In most cases, an item of information is a separate document submitted with the request which contains information relevant to the patent that the patent owner wants the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct. Examples of an item of information that must be submitted as a separate document include a journal article, a patent, an affidavit or declaration, a sales receipt, a foreign search report, a copy of a page of a dictionary containing a definition, a court document, and a transcript of an audio or video recording. However, if the item of information is a U.S. patent or a U.S. patent application publication, a copy is not required, but may be submitted. See 37 CFR 1.610(b)(7).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.610(b)(7)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-be9c93741a4088bac089fb1d]
Requirement for Separate Documents Except U.S. Patents
Note:
Items of information such as journal articles and affidavits must be submitted as separate documents, except U.S. patents or applications which may not require copies.

In most cases, an item of information is a separate document submitted with the request which contains information relevant to the patent that the patent owner wants the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct. Examples of an item of information that must be submitted as a separate document include a journal article, a patent, an affidavit or declaration, a sales receipt, a foreign search report, a copy of a page of a dictionary containing a definition, a court document, and a transcript of an audio or video recording. However, if the item of information is a U.S. patent or a U.S. patent application publication, a copy is not required, but may be submitted. See 37 CFR 1.610(b)(7).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.610(b)(7)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination Fees
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-792259f7c57af5391e695f47]
Discussion Within Request Considered As Item of Information
Note:
If information not based on supporting documents, the discussion in the request is considered as the item of information.

If the information to be considered, reconsidered, or corrected is not, at least in part, contained within or based on a supporting document submitted as part of the request, the discussion within the body of the request relative to that information will be considered as the item of information. For example, if the patent owner requests the Office to consider claim 1 of the patent on the basis of 35 U.S.C. 101, and the discussion of any potential application of 35 U.S.C. 101 to claim 1 is wholly contained within the body of the request and is not based, at least in part, on any supporting document, the discussion in the request will be considered as the item of information. Another example of an item of information that may be contained within the request is an admission by patent owner that certain facts or claim limitations were known at the time of the invention.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-2c9789cbdc16b8540f1c5956]
Discussion of 35 U.S.C. 101 Considered as Item of Information in Request
Note:
If the patent owner requests the Office to consider claim 1 under 35 U.S.C. 101, any discussion must be contained within the request and not based on supporting documents.

If the information to be considered, reconsidered, or corrected is not, at least in part, contained within or based on a supporting document submitted as part of the request, the discussion within the body of the request relative to that information will be considered as the item of information. For example, if the patent owner requests the Office to consider claim 1 of the patent on the basis of 35 U.S.C. 101, and the discussion of any potential application of 35 U.S.C. 101 to claim 1 is wholly contained within the body of the request and is not based, at least in part, on any supporting document, the discussion in the request will be considered as the item of information. Another example of an item of information that may be contained within the request is an admission by patent owner that certain facts or claim limitations were known at the time of the invention.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-bb4e394eea9c0b867c87d3c5]
Patent Owner Admissions Must Be Disclosed
Note:
The patent owner must disclose admissions regarding known facts or claim limitations at the time of invention in their request.

If the information to be considered, reconsidered, or corrected is not, at least in part, contained within or based on a supporting document submitted as part of the request, the discussion within the body of the request relative to that information will be considered as the item of information. For example, if the patent owner requests the Office to consider claim 1 of the patent on the basis of 35 U.S.C. 101, and the discussion of any potential application of 35 U.S.C. 101 to claim 1 is wholly contained within the body of the request and is not based, at least in part, on any supporting document, the discussion in the request will be considered as the item of information. Another example of an item of information that may be contained within the request is an admission by patent owner that certain facts or claim limitations were known at the time of the invention.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-2809-3ceb8b807eefc01fc8f90d34]
Supporting Documents Must Be Separately Provided
Note:
Patent owners must provide separate copies of supporting documents when including their content within the request body.

The patent owner may not avoid counting an item of information by inserting the content of the supporting document within the body of the request. For example, if the patent owner presents an image of a supporting document, such as an image of an electronic mail message or other document, within the body of the request, then a separate copy of the supporting document must be provided. The separate copy of the item will be considered as the item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-56e781f06342e0d297aa7351]
Requirement for Separate Copies of Supporting Documents
Note:
The patent owner must provide a separate copy of any supporting document, such as an electronic mail message, even if the content is included in the request body.

The patent owner may not avoid counting an item of information by inserting the content of the supporting document within the body of the request. For example, if the patent owner presents an image of a supporting document, such as an image of an electronic mail message or other document, within the body of the request, then a separate copy of the supporting document must be provided. The separate copy of the item will be considered as the item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-85518916881ac3eae38e2da1]
Single Reference Can Raise Multiple Issues But Counts As One Item
Note:
A single reference can raise issues under different sections but is counted as a single item of information.

For example, if the patent owner states that the claims are patentable under 35 U.S.C. 103 over the combination of reference A in view of reference B, then references A and B must be separately listed as items of information, and will be counted as two items. If, however, a single item of information, such as a reference patent, raises a potential issue under 35 U.S.C. 102 as to claim 1 and another potential issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to claim 2, the reference patent will nevertheless be counted as a single item of information. The Office will count the number of items of information, but will not count the number of issues potentially raised by each item.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-d4007205f2cb3d47c947a4d6]
Counting Separate Items of Information in Declaration
Note:
If a declaration contains two distinct pieces of information, each will be counted separately as an item of information.

A declaration or affidavit submitted as part of a request would be considered an item of information. However, if the declaration presents two distinct items of information, such as information relating to a potential ground under 35 U.S.C. 101 as to patent claim 1 that was not considered during the prior examination of the patent, and information relating to erroneous facts or data presented during the prior examination of the patent with respect to an issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to patent claim 10, then each item of information contained within the declaration will be counted separately, resulting in two items of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsStatutory Authority for ExaminationSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-d1d07e02460c405592f8a25e]
Declaration with Single Exhibit Counts as One Item
Note:
A declaration presenting one item of information and relying on a single exhibit is likely counted as a single item by the Office.

The patent owner may not avoid the counting of multiple items of information by inserting the multiple items within the body of a declaration or by presenting them as exhibits accompanying the declaration. If the declaration presents one item of information, such as information regarding erroneous data presented during the prior examination of the patent with respect to an issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to a particular patent claim (such as, e.g., claim 10), and relies upon a single exhibit, such as a new table of data, to support facts presented in the declaration, the Office is likely to count the declaration, including the supporting exhibit, as a single item of information. If, however, the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct exhibits, then each exhibit may be counted separately. For example, if the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct sales receipts as evidence of a potential sale of the invention (e.g., a sales receipt dated March 2011, and a second, separate sales receipt dated October 2011, which provides evidence of a second, separate sale of the invention), then each additional sales receipt will be counted separately, resulting in two items of information (one item consisting of the declaration and one sales receipt, and the second item consisting of the second sales receipt). As another example, if the declaration relies not only upon a sales receipt (e.g., exhibit 1) as evidence of a sale of the invention under 35 U.S.C. 102, but also upon a reference patent (e.g., exhibit 2) as evidence of a potential ground under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each additional exhibit will be counted separately. In this example, the declaration and the sales receipt will be counted as a first item of information and the reference patent will be counted as a second item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsStatutory Authority for ExaminationExamination Procedures
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-3ffe007b2c4e60850b45a932]
Declaration and Exhibits Count as Separate Items of Information
Note:
If a declaration relies on multiple distinct exhibits, each exhibit is counted separately for supplemental examination content requirements.

The patent owner may not avoid the counting of multiple items of information by inserting the multiple items within the body of a declaration or by presenting them as exhibits accompanying the declaration. If the declaration presents one item of information, such as information regarding erroneous data presented during the prior examination of the patent with respect to an issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to a particular patent claim (such as, e.g., claim 10), and relies upon a single exhibit, such as a new table of data, to support facts presented in the declaration, the Office is likely to count the declaration, including the supporting exhibit, as a single item of information. If, however, the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct exhibits, then each exhibit may be counted separately. For example, if the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct sales receipts as evidence of a potential sale of the invention (e.g., a sales receipt dated March 2011, and a second, separate sales receipt dated October 2011, which provides evidence of a second, separate sale of the invention), then each additional sales receipt will be counted separately, resulting in two items of information (one item consisting of the declaration and one sales receipt, and the second item consisting of the second sales receipt). As another example, if the declaration relies not only upon a sales receipt (e.g., exhibit 1) as evidence of a sale of the invention under 35 U.S.C. 102, but also upon a reference patent (e.g., exhibit 2) as evidence of a potential ground under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each additional exhibit will be counted separately. In this example, the declaration and the sales receipt will be counted as a first item of information and the reference patent will be counted as a second item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-ac3ff0303036f04f3cd9af6e]
Combining Items of Information for Supplemental Examination
Note:
If items of information are combined in a request, each item must be separately counted and explained to raise an issue or clarify relevance.

37 CFR 1.605(d) provides that if an item of information is combined in the request with one or more additional items of information, each item of information of the combination may be separately counted. If it is necessary to combine items of information in order to raise an issue, or to explain the relevance of the items of information to be considered, reconsidered, or corrected with respect to the identified claims, each item of information may be separately counted. For example, if the patent owner requests consideration of claim 1 of a patent in light of references A and B, and explains that it is the combination of references A and B that is relevant to claim 1, reference A and reference B must be separately listed as items of information, and will be counted as two items of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(d)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-e2e719f8b5115eadbfadcfb4]
Requirement for Separately Listing Combined References
Note:
If the patent owner requests consideration of a claim based on combined references, each reference must be listed separately and counted as individual items.

37 CFR 1.605(d) provides that if an item of information is combined in the request with one or more additional items of information, each item of information of the combination may be separately counted. If it is necessary to combine items of information in order to raise an issue, or to explain the relevance of the items of information to be considered, reconsidered, or corrected with respect to the identified claims, each item of information may be separately counted. For example, if the patent owner requests consideration of claim 1 of a patent in light of references A and B, and explains that it is the combination of references A and B that is relevant to claim 1, reference A and reference B must be separately listed as items of information, and will be counted as two items of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(d)Request Content RequirementsSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
Topic

Supplemental Examination Fees

8 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-a8f0f74cd181c76a0f7da1b4]
Written Transcript Requirement for Audio/Video Recordings
Note:
Any audio or video recording must be submitted in the form of a written transcript to be considered.

(c) An item of information must be in writing in accordance with § 1.2. To be considered, any audio or video recording must be submitted in the form of a written transcript.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.2Supplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-43b9b64f2305d55b6b2aede4]
Exceptions for Combined Documents and Translations
Note:
Exempts the combination of non-English documents with their translations and over 50-page documents with their summaries from separate counting in supplemental examination fee requests.

(d) If one item of information is combined in the request with one or more additional items of information, each item of information of the combination may be separately counted. Exceptions include the combination of a non-English language document and its translation, and the combination of a document that is over 50 pages in length and its summary pursuant to § 1.610(b)(8).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.610(b)(8)Supplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-6fabd13feb79135a044d6bcf]
Limit of Twelve Items Per Request for Supplemental Examination
Note:
Each request can include up to twelve items believed relevant to the patent, allowing multiple sequential or simultaneous requests.

Each request for supplemental examination may include no more than twelve items of information believed to be relevant to the patent. See 37 CFR 1.605(a). 37 CFR 1.605(a) also permits the filing of more than one request for supplemental examination of the same patent at any time during the period of enforceability of the patent. Therefore, patent owner is not precluded from obtaining review of any item of information despite the twelve-item limit, because the patent owner may file one or more additional requests for supplemental examination of the same patent sequentially or at the same time, each of which may include up to twelve additional items of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(a)Supplemental Examination FeesStatutory Authority for ExaminationSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-9f6a3c3cf9adc7aba714c985]
Patent Owner Must Provide Separate Copy of Supporting Document
Note:
If the patent owner presents an image of a supporting document within the request, they must also provide a separate copy of that document.

The patent owner may not avoid counting an item of information by inserting the content of the supporting document within the body of the request. For example, if the patent owner presents an image of a supporting document, such as an image of an electronic mail message or other document, within the body of the request, then a separate copy of the supporting document must be provided. The separate copy of the item will be considered as the item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Supplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-67d8794e2e6e0fa4ef346489]
Declaration Using Separate Exhibits Counts As Multiple Items
Note:
If a declaration relies on two distinct exhibits, each exhibit is counted separately for supplemental examination fees.

The patent owner may not avoid the counting of multiple items of information by inserting the multiple items within the body of a declaration or by presenting them as exhibits accompanying the declaration. If the declaration presents one item of information, such as information regarding erroneous data presented during the prior examination of the patent with respect to an issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to a particular patent claim (such as, e.g., claim 10), and relies upon a single exhibit, such as a new table of data, to support facts presented in the declaration, the Office is likely to count the declaration, including the supporting exhibit, as a single item of information. If, however, the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct exhibits, then each exhibit may be counted separately. For example, if the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct sales receipts as evidence of a potential sale of the invention (e.g., a sales receipt dated March 2011, and a second, separate sales receipt dated October 2011, which provides evidence of a second, separate sale of the invention), then each additional sales receipt will be counted separately, resulting in two items of information (one item consisting of the declaration and one sales receipt, and the second item consisting of the second sales receipt). As another example, if the declaration relies not only upon a sales receipt (e.g., exhibit 1) as evidence of a sale of the invention under 35 U.S.C. 102, but also upon a reference patent (e.g., exhibit 2) as evidence of a potential ground under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each additional exhibit will be counted separately. In this example, the declaration and the sales receipt will be counted as a first item of information and the reference patent will be counted as a second item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Supplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-05c67856a68fc6e55636a895]
Declaration and Additional Exhibits Count Separately
Note:
If a declaration relies on both a sales receipt and another reference patent, each additional exhibit is counted separately.

The patent owner may not avoid the counting of multiple items of information by inserting the multiple items within the body of a declaration or by presenting them as exhibits accompanying the declaration. If the declaration presents one item of information, such as information regarding erroneous data presented during the prior examination of the patent with respect to an issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to a particular patent claim (such as, e.g., claim 10), and relies upon a single exhibit, such as a new table of data, to support facts presented in the declaration, the Office is likely to count the declaration, including the supporting exhibit, as a single item of information. If, however, the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct exhibits, then each exhibit may be counted separately. For example, if the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct sales receipts as evidence of a potential sale of the invention (e.g., a sales receipt dated March 2011, and a second, separate sales receipt dated October 2011, which provides evidence of a second, separate sale of the invention), then each additional sales receipt will be counted separately, resulting in two items of information (one item consisting of the declaration and one sales receipt, and the second item consisting of the second sales receipt). As another example, if the declaration relies not only upon a sales receipt (e.g., exhibit 1) as evidence of a sale of the invention under 35 U.S.C. 102, but also upon a reference patent (e.g., exhibit 2) as evidence of a potential ground under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each additional exhibit will be counted separately. In this example, the declaration and the sales receipt will be counted as a first item of information and the reference patent will be counted as a second item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Supplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-2809-845429507ead81cc73455487]
Petitions Must Be Filed After Reexamination
Note:
Petitions, including those for unintentionally delayed foreign priority or domestic benefit claims, must be filed after reexamination is ordered.

Petitions should not be submitted with the request. Petitions including, for example, petitions for unintentionally delayed foreign priority or domestic benefit claims (see MPEP § 2809.01), should only be filed after reexamination is ordered. If a petition is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding, it will generally be held in abeyance until after the issuance of the supplemental examination certificate. See 37 CFR 1.620(b) and MPEP § 2813. If the Office determines that a substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be addressed in due course after reexamination is ordered. If, however, the Office determines that no substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be dismissed as moot.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(b)Supplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-2809-e66e41e25473a9880c3f97f5]
Amendments Prohibited With Request
Note:
Patent amendments cannot be submitted with the initial request and are not allowed in supplemental examination proceedings.

In addition, amendments to the patent may not be submitted with the request. No amendment may be filed in a supplemental examination proceeding. 37 CFR 1.620(f). Any paper containing an amendment that is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding is an unauthorized paper, and will be expunged from the file if inadvertently entered. If reexamination is ordered, amendments may be filed after an initial Office action on the merits in the resulting reexamination proceeding. See MPEP § 2813.01.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(f)Supplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
Topic

Supplemental Examination Request

7 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-4bfd13eab9a89b5c865869ff]
Supplemental Examination Request Must Clearly Set Information
Note:
Patent owners are encouraged to draft their supplemental examination request clearly and consistently, specifying the items of information they wish the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct.

An "item of information" includes a document submitted as part of a supplemental examination request that contains information believed to be relevant to the patent, that the patent owner is requesting the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct. See 37 CFR 1.605(b). Patent owners are encouraged to draft the supplemental examination request to clearly and consistently set forth the items of information the patent owner wishes the Office to consider, reconsider, or correct.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(b)Supplemental Examination RequestSupplemental ExaminationRequest Content Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-eb90e1485e21ff07915e5eac]
Transcript Requirement for Audio/Video Recordings in Supplemental Examination
Note:
Audio and video recordings must be submitted as a written transcript along with selected images and a correlation discussion.

37 CFR 1.605(c) requires that an item of information must be in writing in accordance with 37 CFR 1.2. The Office does not currently have the capability of retaining records in unwritten form. For this reason, any audio or video recording must be submitted in the form of a written transcript in order to be considered. A transcript of a video may be submitted together with copies of selected images of the video, and a discussion of the correlation between the transcript and the copies of the video images. See also MPEP § 2807 regarding the format requirements for papers submitted in a supplemental examination proceeding.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(c)Supplemental Examination RequestSupplemental ExaminationRequest Content Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-2809-0d8b6de517c9792d9fa26211]
Transcripts Must Be Submitted for Audio/Video Recordings
Note:
Audio and video recordings must be submitted as written transcripts to meet the submission requirements.

37 CFR 1.605(c) requires that an item of information must be in writing in accordance with 37 CFR 1.2. The Office does not currently have the capability of retaining records in unwritten form. For this reason, any audio or video recording must be submitted in the form of a written transcript in order to be considered. A transcript of a video may be submitted together with copies of selected images of the video, and a discussion of the correlation between the transcript and the copies of the video images. See also MPEP § 2807 regarding the format requirements for papers submitted in a supplemental examination proceeding.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(c)Supplemental Examination RequestSupplemental ExaminationRequest Content Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-cb8618239100723d289326e9]
Single Reference Multiple Issues Counted Once
Note:
A single reference raising multiple issues under different grounds is counted as one item of information.

The Office will not count the number of issues raised by, or the number of grounds which the patent owner requests the Office to consider, when determining the number of items of information. A single reference that raises multiple issues under multiple grounds, for example, under 35 U.S.C. 102, 35 U.S.C. 103, and 35 U.S.C. 112, will be counted as a single item of information. However, if the patent owner cites a combination of multiple references under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each reference of the combination will be separately counted as an item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Supplemental Examination RequestSupplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination Fees
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-c3ffd5da9bb4ce267ce27ed7]
Items of Information Not Issues
Note:
The Office counts each distinct item of information separately, regardless of the number of issues it may raise.

For example, if the patent owner states that the claims are patentable under 35 U.S.C. 103 over the combination of reference A in view of reference B, then references A and B must be separately listed as items of information, and will be counted as two items. If, however, a single item of information, such as a reference patent, raises a potential issue under 35 U.S.C. 102 as to claim 1 and another potential issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to claim 2, the reference patent will nevertheless be counted as a single item of information. The Office will count the number of items of information, but will not count the number of issues potentially raised by each item.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Supplemental Examination RequestSupplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination Fees
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-2809-598d1c2160b6954cdba4f025]
Declaration and Exhibits Count as Single Item
Note:
A patent owner cannot present multiple items of information through a single declaration or separate exhibits, which would be counted as one item.

The patent owner may not avoid the counting of multiple items of information by inserting the multiple items within the body of a declaration or by presenting them as exhibits accompanying the declaration. If the declaration presents one item of information, such as information regarding erroneous data presented during the prior examination of the patent with respect to an issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to a particular patent claim (such as, e.g., claim 10), and relies upon a single exhibit, such as a new table of data, to support facts presented in the declaration, the Office is likely to count the declaration, including the supporting exhibit, as a single item of information. If, however, the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct exhibits, then each exhibit may be counted separately. For example, if the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct sales receipts as evidence of a potential sale of the invention (e.g., a sales receipt dated March 2011, and a second, separate sales receipt dated October 2011, which provides evidence of a second, separate sale of the invention), then each additional sales receipt will be counted separately, resulting in two items of information (one item consisting of the declaration and one sales receipt, and the second item consisting of the second sales receipt). As another example, if the declaration relies not only upon a sales receipt (e.g., exhibit 1) as evidence of a sale of the invention under 35 U.S.C. 102, but also upon a reference patent (e.g., exhibit 2) as evidence of a potential ground under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each additional exhibit will be counted separately. In this example, the declaration and the sales receipt will be counted as a first item of information and the reference patent will be counted as a second item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Supplemental Examination RequestSupplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination Fees
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-ff2b08287a98caa3c4174344]
Multiple Sales Receipts as Separate Items of Information
Note:
If a declaration relies on multiple distinct sales receipts, each receipt is counted separately as an item of information.

The patent owner may not avoid the counting of multiple items of information by inserting the multiple items within the body of a declaration or by presenting them as exhibits accompanying the declaration. If the declaration presents one item of information, such as information regarding erroneous data presented during the prior examination of the patent with respect to an issue under 35 U.S.C. 103 as to a particular patent claim (such as, e.g., claim 10), and relies upon a single exhibit, such as a new table of data, to support facts presented in the declaration, the Office is likely to count the declaration, including the supporting exhibit, as a single item of information. If, however, the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct exhibits, then each exhibit may be counted separately. For example, if the declaration relies upon two separate and distinct sales receipts as evidence of a potential sale of the invention (e.g., a sales receipt dated March 2011, and a second, separate sales receipt dated October 2011, which provides evidence of a second, separate sale of the invention), then each additional sales receipt will be counted separately, resulting in two items of information (one item consisting of the declaration and one sales receipt, and the second item consisting of the second sales receipt). As another example, if the declaration relies not only upon a sales receipt (e.g., exhibit 1) as evidence of a sale of the invention under 35 U.S.C. 102, but also upon a reference patent (e.g., exhibit 2) as evidence of a potential ground under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each additional exhibit will be counted separately. In this example, the declaration and the sales receipt will be counted as a first item of information and the reference patent will be counted as a second item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Supplemental Examination RequestSupplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination Fees
Topic

Supplemental Examination

3 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-4b45f8495490ea9e6c9b80eb]
Transcript and Selected Video Images Required for Supplemental Examination
Note:
A transcript of a video must be submitted along with selected images from the video, and an explanation of their correlation. This requirement applies to supplemental examination proceedings.

37 CFR 1.605(c) requires that an item of information must be in writing in accordance with 37 CFR 1.2. The Office does not currently have the capability of retaining records in unwritten form. For this reason, any audio or video recording must be submitted in the form of a written transcript in order to be considered. A transcript of a video may be submitted together with copies of selected images of the video, and a discussion of the correlation between the transcript and the copies of the video images. See also MPEP § 2807 regarding the format requirements for papers submitted in a supplemental examination proceeding.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605(c)Supplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination RequestRequest Content Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-007ad1852f25535b9eb573f4]
Non-English Translations and Long Document Summaries Required
Note:
This rule requires that non-English documents be combined with their translations, and long documents over 50 pages must be combined with their summaries.

Exceptions to this provision include the combination of a non-English language document and its translation, and the combination of a document that is over 50 pages in length and its summary pursuant to 37 CFR 1.610(b)(8).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.610(b)(8)Supplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-538a445cbd98c8af43f5de65]
No Amendments in Supplemental Examination
Note:
Patent amendments cannot be submitted with requests and are not permitted in supplemental examination proceedings.

In addition, amendments to the patent may not be submitted with the request. No amendment may be filed in a supplemental examination proceeding. 37 CFR 1.620(f). Any paper containing an amendment that is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding is an unauthorized paper, and will be expunged from the file if inadvertently entered. If reexamination is ordered, amendments may be filed after an initial Office action on the merits in the resulting reexamination proceeding. See MPEP § 2813.01.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(f)Supplemental ExaminationSupplemental Examination FeesSupplemental Examination Request
Topic

Statutory Authority for Examination

2 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-df6844230e5ab5f701db4ddf]
Limit on Supplemental Examination Requests
Note:
Each request for supplemental examination may include no more than twelve items of information relevant to the patent. Multiple requests can be filed during the patent's enforceability period.

(a) Each request for supplemental examination may include no more than twelve items of information believed to be relevant to the patent. More than one request for supplemental examination of the same patent may be filed at any time during the period of enforceability of the patent.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Statutory Authority for ExaminationSupplemental Examination RequestSupplemental Examination
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-da7cfc32484ed3b041b2e1d8]
Multiple Supplemental Examinations Permitted During Patent Enforceability
Note:
Patents can be subject to multiple supplemental examinations at any time while the patent is enforceable, with each request limited to twelve items of information.

(a) Each request for supplemental examination may include no more than twelve items of information believed to be relevant to the patent. More than one request for supplemental examination of the same patent may be filed at any time during the period of enforceability of the patent.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Statutory Authority for ExaminationExamination ProceduresSupplemental Examination
Topic

SNQ Criteria

2 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-78b90cc913284f37e89f31cd]
Petitions Held Until Reexamination
Note:
Petitions held in abeyance will be addressed after reexamination if a substantial new question of patentability is raised.

Petitions should not be submitted with the request. Petitions including, for example, petitions for unintentionally delayed foreign priority or domestic benefit claims (see MPEP § 2809.01), should only be filed after reexamination is ordered. If a petition is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding, it will generally be held in abeyance until after the issuance of the supplemental examination certificate. See 37 CFR 1.620(b) and MPEP § 2813. If the Office determines that a substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be addressed in due course after reexamination is ordered. If, however, the Office determines that no substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be dismissed as moot.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(b)SNQ CriteriaReexamination OrderSubstantial New Question of Patentability
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-81d29817c0615c6407b69531]
Petitions Held Moot If No Substantial New Question of Patentability
Note:
If the Office finds no new patentability issues, any pending petitions will be dismissed as irrelevant.

Petitions should not be submitted with the request. Petitions including, for example, petitions for unintentionally delayed foreign priority or domestic benefit claims (see MPEP § 2809.01), should only be filed after reexamination is ordered. If a petition is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding, it will generally be held in abeyance until after the issuance of the supplemental examination certificate. See 37 CFR 1.620(b) and MPEP § 2813. If the Office determines that a substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be addressed in due course after reexamination is ordered. If, however, the Office determines that no substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be dismissed as moot.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(b)SNQ CriteriaDenial – No SNQ RaisedSubstantial New Question of Patentability
Topic

Amendments Adding New Matter

2 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-cccda1e4b598ac47a44acaab]
No Amendments Allowed In Supplemental Examination
Note:
Patent amendments are not permitted in supplemental examination proceedings.

In addition, amendments to the patent may not be submitted with the request. No amendment may be filed in a supplemental examination proceeding. 37 CFR 1.620(f). Any paper containing an amendment that is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding is an unauthorized paper, and will be expunged from the file if inadvertently entered. If reexamination is ordered, amendments may be filed after an initial Office action on the merits in the resulting reexamination proceeding. See MPEP § 2813.01.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(f)Amendments Adding New MatterOptional Amendment ContentAmendments to Application
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-81a4bd484635ff92bef281d2]
Amendments Not Allowed In Supplemental Examination
Note:
No amendments may be filed in a supplemental examination proceeding and any such paper will be expunged from the file if entered inadvertently.

In addition, amendments to the patent may not be submitted with the request. No amendment may be filed in a supplemental examination proceeding. 37 CFR 1.620(f). Any paper containing an amendment that is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding is an unauthorized paper, and will be expunged from the file if inadvertently entered. If reexamination is ordered, amendments may be filed after an initial Office action on the merits in the resulting reexamination proceeding. See MPEP § 2813.01.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(f)Amendments Adding New MatterAmendments to ApplicationStatutory Authority for Examination
Topic

Single Reference Requirement

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-5ea302d5b91ce6a789b667e6]
Combination of Multiple References Under 35 U.S.C. 103 Counts as Separate Items
Note:
If a patent owner cites multiple references under 35 U.S.C. 103, each reference is counted separately as an item of information.

The Office will not count the number of issues raised by, or the number of grounds which the patent owner requests the Office to consider, when determining the number of items of information. A single reference that raises multiple issues under multiple grounds, for example, under 35 U.S.C. 102, 35 U.S.C. 103, and 35 U.S.C. 112, will be counted as a single item of information. However, if the patent owner cites a combination of multiple references under 35 U.S.C. 103, then each reference of the combination will be separately counted as an item of information.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.605Single Reference RequirementRequest Content RequirementsElements of Anticipation (MPEP 2131)
Topic

Unintentional Delay Standard

1 rules
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-2809-d4d90f72502a153043f8d267]
Petitions Must Be Filed After Reexamination
Note:
Petitions for unintentionally delayed foreign priority or domestic benefit claims must be filed after reexamination is ordered.

Petitions should not be submitted with the request. Petitions including, for example, petitions for unintentionally delayed foreign priority or domestic benefit claims (see MPEP § 2809.01), should only be filed after reexamination is ordered. If a petition is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding, it will generally be held in abeyance until after the issuance of the supplemental examination certificate. See 37 CFR 1.620(b) and MPEP § 2813. If the Office determines that a substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be addressed in due course after reexamination is ordered. If, however, the Office determines that no substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be dismissed as moot.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(b)Unintentional Delay StandardReexamination OrderDelayed Benefit/Priority Claims
Topic

Reexamination Certificate

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-2809-1057246e9eb25df62095f802]
Petition Held Until Supplemental Exam Certificate Issued
Note:
A petition filed in a supplemental examination proceeding will generally be held until after the issuance of the supplemental examination certificate.

Petitions should not be submitted with the request. Petitions including, for example, petitions for unintentionally delayed foreign priority or domestic benefit claims (see MPEP § 2809.01), should only be filed after reexamination is ordered. If a petition is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding, it will generally be held in abeyance until after the issuance of the supplemental examination certificate. See 37 CFR 1.620(b) and MPEP § 2813. If the Office determines that a substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be addressed in due course after reexamination is ordered. If, however, the Office determines that no substantial new question of patentability is raised by the request, any petition held in abeyance will be dismissed as moot.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(b)Reexamination CertificateConclusion of Ex Parte ReexaminationSupplemental Examination Certificate
Topic

First Office Action on Merits

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-2809-3031816ce2950d63d3b000a6]
Amendments Allowed After Merits Review in Reexamination
Note:
Patent amendments may be filed after the initial Office action on merits during a reexamination proceeding, but not in supplemental examination.

In addition, amendments to the patent may not be submitted with the request. No amendment may be filed in a supplemental examination proceeding. 37 CFR 1.620(f). Any paper containing an amendment that is filed in a supplemental examination proceeding is an unauthorized paper, and will be expunged from the file if inadvertently entered. If reexamination is ordered, amendments may be filed after an initial Office action on the merits in the resulting reexamination proceeding. See MPEP § 2813.01.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.620(f)First Office Action on MeritsExamination in ReexaminationReexamination Order

Citations

Primary topicCitation
Request Content Requirements35 U.S.C. § 101
Request Content Requirements
Single Reference Requirement
Supplemental Examination Fees
Supplemental Examination Request
35 U.S.C. § 102
Request Content Requirements
Single Reference Requirement
Supplemental Examination Fees
Supplemental Examination Request
35 U.S.C. § 103
Single Reference Requirement
Supplemental Examination Request
35 U.S.C. § 112
Request Content Requirements
Supplemental Examination
Supplemental Examination Fees
Supplemental Examination Request
37 CFR § 1.2
Request Content Requirements
Supplemental Examination Fees
37 CFR § 1.605(a)
Request Content Requirements
Supplemental Examination Request
37 CFR § 1.605(b)
Request Content Requirements
Supplemental Examination
Supplemental Examination Request
37 CFR § 1.605(c)
Request Content Requirements37 CFR § 1.605(d)
Request Content Requirements37 CFR § 1.610(b)(7)
Request Content Requirements
Supplemental Examination
Supplemental Examination Fees
37 CFR § 1.610(b)(8)
Reexamination Certificate
SNQ Criteria
Supplemental Examination Fees
Unintentional Delay Standard
37 CFR § 1.620(b)
Amendments Adding New Matter
First Office Action on Merits
Supplemental Examination
Supplemental Examination Fees
37 CFR § 1.620(f)
Request Content Requirements
Supplemental Examination
Supplemental Examination Request
MPEP § 2807
Reexamination Certificate
SNQ Criteria
Supplemental Examination Fees
Unintentional Delay Standard
MPEP § 2809.01
Reexamination Certificate
SNQ Criteria
Supplemental Examination Fees
Unintentional Delay Standard
MPEP § 2813
Amendments Adding New Matter
First Office Action on Merits
Supplemental Examination
Supplemental Examination Fees
MPEP § 2813.01

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: 2026-01-17