MPEP § 714 — Amendments, Applicant’s Action (Annotated Rules)

§714 Amendments, Applicant’s Action

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

This page consolidates and annotates all enforceable requirements under MPEP § 714, 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.

Amendments, Applicant’s Action

This section addresses Amendments, Applicant’s Action. Primary authority: 37 CFR 1.58(c), 37 CFR 1.96(c)(5), and 37 CFR 1.825. Contains: 25 requirements, 1 prohibition, 1 permission, and 5 other statements.

Key Rules

Topic

Sequence Listing Requirements

22 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-31212e124c43b70a614ca833]
Claims Must Be Rewritten Entirely On Amendment
Note:
Amendments to claims must rewrite the entire claim with all changes, except for cancellations. All claims ever presented must be included in the amendment document.
(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).
  • (1) Claim listing. All of the claims presented in a claim listing shall be presented in ascending numerical order. Consecutive claims having the same status of “canceled” or “not entered” may be aggregated into one statement (e.g., Claims 1–5 (canceled)). The claim listing shall commence on a separate sheet of the amendment document and the sheet(s) that contain the text of any part of the claims shall not contain any other part of the amendment.
  • (2) When claim text with markings is required. All claims being currently amended in an amendment paper shall be presented in the claim listing, indicate a status of “currently amended,” and be submitted with markings to indicate the changes that have been made relative to the immediate prior version of the claims. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived. Only claims having the status of “currently amended,” or “withdrawn” if also being amended, shall include markings. If a withdrawn claim is currently amended, its status in the claim listing may be identified as “withdrawn— currently amended.”
  • (3) When claim text in clean version is required. The text of all pending claims not being currently amended shall be presented in the claim listing in clean version, i.e., without any markings in the presentation of text. The presentation of a clean version of any claim having the status of “original,” “withdrawn” or “previously presented” will constitute an assertion that it has not been changed relative to the immediate prior version, except to omit markings that may have been present in the immediate prior version of the claims of the status of “withdrawn” or “previously presented.” Any claim added by amendment must be indicated with the status of “new” and presented in clean version, i.e., without any underlining.
  • (4) When claim text shall not be presented; canceling a claim.
    • (i) No claim text shall be presented for any claim in the claim listing with the status of “canceled” or “not entered.”
    • (ii) Cancellation of a claim shall be effected by an instruction to cancel a particular claim number. Identifying the status of a claim in the claim listing as “canceled” will constitute an instruction to cancel the claim.
  • (5) Reinstatement of previously canceled claim. A claim which was previously canceled may be reinstated only by adding the claim as a “new” claim with a new claim number.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-409bb42f1a8bc1e85041de1d]
Claim Listing Must Include All Versions
Note:
All claims ever presented, including text of pending and withdrawn claims, must be listed in ascending numerical order with their status indicated.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered). (1) Claim listing. All of the claims presented in a claim listing shall be presented in ascending numerical order. Consecutive claims having the same status of “canceled” or “not entered” may be aggregated into one statement (e.g., Claims 1–5 (canceled)). The claim listing shall commence on a separate sheet of the amendment document and the sheet(s) that contain the text of any part of the claims shall not contain any other part of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-e889429838f15fe7bd47272b]
Claims Must Be Listed Numerically
Note:
All claims must be listed in ascending numerical order in the claim listing.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered). (1) Claim listing. All of the claims presented in a claim listing shall be presented in ascending numerical order. Consecutive claims having the same status of “canceled” or “not entered” may be aggregated into one statement (e.g., Claims 1–5 (canceled)). The claim listing shall commence on a separate sheet of the amendment document and the sheet(s) that contain the text of any part of the claims shall not contain any other part of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-0912e4abab43cc1e9d40c951]
Claims Having Same Status Can Be Aggregated
Note:
Consecutive claims with the same status such as canceled or not entered can be combined into one statement in the claim listing.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered). (1) Claim listing. All of the claims presented in a claim listing shall be presented in ascending numerical order. Consecutive claims having the same status of “canceled” or “not entered” may be aggregated into one statement (e.g., Claims 1–5 (canceled)). The claim listing shall commence on a separate sheet of the amendment document and the sheet(s) that contain the text of any part of the claims shall not contain any other part of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-e93c8a6383e409fd73fabf96]
Claim Listing Must Be On Separate Sheet
Note:
All claim listings must be on a separate sheet of the amendment document, with no other parts of the amendment included on those sheets.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered). (1) Claim listing. All of the claims presented in a claim listing shall be presented in ascending numerical order. Consecutive claims having the same status of “canceled” or “not entered” may be aggregated into one statement (e.g., Claims 1–5 (canceled)). The claim listing shall commence on a separate sheet of the amendment document and the sheet(s) that contain the text of any part of the claims shall not contain any other part of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-c82e374eaa1650b8e9cff7aa]
Claims Must Be Marked When Amended
Note:
When amending claims, the changes must be shown by underlining additions and strike-through deletions.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

(2) When claim text with markings is required.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-49ad319675055844be88dd5c]
Claims Must Be Marked and Listed When Amended
Note:
All claims being amended must be listed, marked to show changes, and indicate 'currently amended' status.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

All claims being currently amended in an amendment paper shall be presented in the claim listing, indicate a status of “currently amended,” and be submitted with markings to indicate the changes that have been made relative to the immediate prior version of the claims.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-421c999fce16faf4a3bf26b4]
Claims Must Be Rewritten With Markings
Note:
Amendments to claims must be rewritten with all changes indicated, including additions and deletions marked by underlining added text.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-2cf8e761b65285f2282a3470]
How to Show Deleted Text in Claims Amendments
Note:
This rule explains how to mark deleted text in claim amendments, using strike-through for most deletions and double brackets for short deletions.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

The text of any deleted matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-4e416493d6701400aa86c124]
Claim Amendments Must Show Deleted Text If Strike-Through Not Perceivable
Note:
When amending claims, deleted text must be shown within double brackets if strike-through is not easily perceivable.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-b07debe1626ed380ce8684d1]
Claims Must Include Markings If Currently Amended Or Withdrawn
Note:
This rule requires that claims marked as ‘currently amended’ or ‘withdrawn’ if also being amended, must include specific markings to indicate changes.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

Only claims having the status of “currently amended,” or “withdrawn” if also being amended, shall include markings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-c9ebfe305df785810b08c160]
Withdrawn Claim Currently Amended Status
Note:
If a withdrawn claim is amended, its status in the claim listing must be identified as 'withdrawn—currently amended'.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

If a withdrawn claim is currently amended, its status in the claim listing may be identified as “withdrawn— currently amended.”

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-1dfaa2a86ea29ce4cca9efc6]
Clean Version of Pending Claims Required
Note:
All claims not currently amended must be presented in clean version without any markings.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

(3) When claim text in clean version is required.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-1888f0cabb4fb82ec1d393c0]
Pending Claims Must Be Presented Cleanly
Note:
All pending claims not currently amended must be presented without any markings in the claim listing.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

The text of all pending claims not being currently amended shall be presented in the claim listing in clean version, i.e., without any markings in the presentation of text.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-59f7ab2437f4e175ee7f7a05]
Presentation of Clean Claims Must Assert No Changes
Note:
The presentation of claims with statuses 'original', 'withdrawn', or 'previously presented' in clean version constitutes an assertion that they have not been changed, except to omit markings from withdrawn or previously presented versions.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

The presentation of a clean version of any claim having the status of “original,” “withdrawn” or “previously presented” will constitute an assertion that it has not been changed relative to the immediate prior version, except to omit markings that may have been present in the immediate prior version of the claims of the status of “withdrawn” or “previously presented.”

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-9dfd9a2e460c5da20b063359]
Claims Added by Amendment Must Be Marked as New and Presented Cleanly
Note:
Any new claim added through amendment must be clearly marked as 'new' and presented without any underlining or other markings.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

Any claim added by amendment must be indicated with the status of “new” and presented in clean version, i.e., without any underlining.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-d0a30106b80cad123823bdc4]
Claims Must Not Include Text for Canceled Claims
Note:
Amendments must not include text for claims with a status of 'canceled' in the claim listing.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).
(4) When claim text shall not be presented; canceling a claim. (i) No claim text shall be presented for any claim in the claim listing with the status of “canceled” or “not entered.”

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-f4ecd8f71f662ddc18792926]
Cancellation of Claim Requires Specific Instruction
Note:
Each claim cancellation must be explicitly instructed by specifying the claim number.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).
(4) When claim text shall not be presented; canceling a claim.

(ii) Cancellation of a claim shall be effected by an instruction to cancel a particular claim number.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-97d3df675a6fa1c3ee3ebb93]
Canceled Claim Must Be Removed
Note:
Identifying a claim as canceled in the listing requires its removal from the application.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).
(4) When claim text shall not be presented; canceling a claim.

Identifying the status of a claim in the claim listing as “canceled” will constitute an instruction to cancel the claim.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-2e8adcc78340e5eac4de7e96]
Claims Must Be Rewritten When Cancelled
Note:
When canceling a claim, the entire claim must be rewritten with all changes indicated.
(4) When claim text shall not be presented; canceling a claim.
  • (i) No claim text shall be presented for any claim in the claim listing with the status of “canceled” or “not entered.”
  • (ii) Cancellation of a claim shall be effected by an instruction to cancel a particular claim number. Identifying the status of a claim in the claim listing as “canceled” will constitute an instruction to cancel the claim.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-979017da644fb70a67bb4b9f]
Previously Cancelled Claim Can Be Reinstated as New
Note:
A previously canceled claim can be reinstated by adding it as a new claim with a new claim number.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

(5) Reinstatement of previously canceled claim.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-2c5928038c1615960e9a4967]
Previously Canceled Claim Must Be Added As New
Note:
A canceled claim can only be reinstated by including it as a new claim with a different number.

(c) Claims. Amendments to a claim must be made by rewriting the entire claim with all changes (e.g., additions and deletions) as indicated in this subsection, except when the claim is being canceled. Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, cancellation of an existing claim or addition of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented, including the text of all pending and withdrawn claims, in the application. The claim listing, including the text of the claims, in the amendment document will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims, in the application. In the claim listing, the status of every claim must be indicated after its claim number by using one of the following identifiers in a parenthetical expression: (Original), (Currently amended), (Canceled), (Withdrawn), (Previously presented), (New), and (Not entered).

A claim which was previously canceled may be reinstated only by adding the claim as a “new” claim with a new claim number.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing Requirements
Topic

Sequence Listing Format

18 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-38530289ca8ce31c9ea80783]
Amendments to Specification Must Follow Specific Methods
Note:
The specification, excluding claims and certain types of listings, must be amended by adding, deleting, or replacing paragraphs, sections, or providing a substitute specification in the specified manner.
(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.
  • (1) Amendment to delete, replace, or add a paragraph. Amendments to the specification, including amendment to a section heading or the title of the invention which are considered for amendment purposes to be an amendment of a paragraph, must be made by submitting:
    • (i) An instruction, which unambiguously identifies the location, to delete one or more paragraphs of the specification, replace a paragraph with one or more replacement paragraphs, or add one or more paragraphs;
    • (ii) The full text of any replacement paragraph with markings to show all the changes relative to the previous version of the paragraph. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived;
    • (iii) The full text of any added paragraphs without any underlining; and
    • (iv) The text of a paragraph to be deleted must not be presented with strike-through or placed within double brackets. The instruction to delete may identify a paragraph by its paragraph number or include a few words from the beginning, and end, of the paragraph, if needed for paragraph identification purposes.
  • (2) Amendment by replacement section. If the sections of the specification contain section headings as provided in § 1.77(b), § 1.154(b), or § 1.163(c), amendments to the specification, other than the claims, may be made by submitting:
    • (i) A reference to the section heading along with an instruction, which unambiguously identifies the location, to delete that section of the specification and to replace such deleted section with a replacement section; and
    • (ii) A replacement section with markings to show all changes relative to the previous version of the section. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.
  • (3) Amendment by substitute specification. The specification, other than the claims, may also be amended by submitting:
    • (i) An instruction to replace the specification; and
    • (ii) A substitute specification in compliance with §§ 1.125(b) and (c).
  • (4) Reinstatement of previously deleted paragraph or section. A previously deleted paragraph or section may be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment adding the previously deleted paragraph or section.
  • (5) Presentation in subsequent amendment document. Once a paragraph or section is amended in a first amendment document, the paragraph or section shall not be represented in a subsequent amendment document unless it is amended again or a substitute specification is provided.
  • (6) Amendments to "Large Tables," a "Computer Program Listing Appendix," a "Sequence Listing", or a “Sequence Listing XML”. Changes to “Large Tables,” a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” a “Sequence Listing,” or a “Sequence Listing XML” must be made in accordance with § 1.58(g) for "Large Tables," § 1.96(c)(5) for a "Computer Program Listing Appendix," § 1.825 for a "Sequence Listing," or § 1.835 for a “Sequence Listing XML.”
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-8aaf6d75a84e23259d2db667]
Paragraph Deletion Must Not Use Strike-Through
Note:
When deleting a paragraph in the specification, it must not be presented with strike-through or placed within double brackets.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.
(1) Amendment to delete, replace, or add a paragraph. Amendments to the specification, including amendment to a section heading or the title of the invention which are considered for amendment purposes to be an amendment of a paragraph, must be made by submitting:

(iv) The text of a paragraph to be deleted must not be presented with strike-through or placed within double brackets.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-bbaffa6f8fe5388887ba8dfe]
Amendment to Delete a Paragraph Must Be Clearly Identified
Note:
The instruction to delete a paragraph must specify the paragraph by number or include words from its beginning and end for identification purposes.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.
(1) Amendment to delete, replace, or add a paragraph. Amendments to the specification, including amendment to a section heading or the title of the invention which are considered for amendment purposes to be an amendment of a paragraph, must be made by submitting:

The instruction to delete may identify a paragraph by its paragraph number or include a few words from the beginning, and end, of the paragraph, if needed for paragraph identification purposes.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-e3070c860a6979424655a6bf]
Specification Changes Must Show All Modifications
Note:
Amendments to the specification must include markings to show all changes relative to previous versions, using underlining for additions and strike-through or double brackets for deletions.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.
(2) Amendment by replacement section. If the sections of the specification contain section headings as provided in § 1.77(b), § 1.154(b), or § 1.163(c), amendments to the specification, other than the claims, may be made by submitting:

(ii) A replacement section with markings to show all changes relative to the previous version of the section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-baac1acc92784b6747a8db39]
Added Specification Text Must Be Underlined
Note:
When amending the specification, any added text must be shown by underlining.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.
(2) Amendment by replacement section. If the sections of the specification contain section headings as provided in § 1.77(b), § 1.154(b), or § 1.163(c), amendments to the specification, other than the claims, may be made by submitting:

The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-3f7de7bc01f9584d85a383c8]
Formatting for Deleted Specification Text
Note:
The text of deleted specification matter must be shown by strike-through, except for deletions of five or fewer consecutive characters, which should be marked with double brackets.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.
(2) Amendment by replacement section. If the sections of the specification contain section headings as provided in § 1.77(b), § 1.154(b), or § 1.163(c), amendments to the specification, other than the claims, may be made by submitting:

The text of any deleted matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-f0c944eb071e36950f967beb]
Deleted Specification Text Must Be Bracketed
Note:
When deleting text in the specification, it must be shown within double brackets if strike-through is not easily perceived.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.
(2) Amendment by replacement section. If the sections of the specification contain section headings as provided in § 1.77(b), § 1.154(b), or § 1.163(c), amendments to the specification, other than the claims, may be made by submitting:

The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-42bd26d85bc6bdd8ae2d87c3]
Reinstating Previously Deleted Specification Section
Note:
A deleted paragraph or section in the specification can be reinstated by adding it back through a subsequent amendment.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.

(4) Reinstatement of previously deleted paragraph or section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-12e832e624823ba63a8b22c6]
Previously Deleted Paragraphs Must Be Re-added
Note:
A deleted paragraph or section can only be reinstated by adding it back through a subsequent amendment.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.

A previously deleted paragraph or section may be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment adding the previously deleted paragraph or section.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-34416d0b243f6e0e0cede608]
Specification Paragraphs Must Be Amended Again For Subsequent Amendments
Note:
Once a paragraph in the specification is amended, it must be amended again or replaced with a substitute specification in any subsequent amendment document.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.

(5) Presentation in subsequent amendment document.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-2f584253b6f6b45385f82e05]
Amended Paragraphs Must Be Re-Amended
Note:
Once a paragraph is amended in the first amendment document, it cannot be represented again in subsequent documents unless it is further amended or replaced with a substitute specification.

(b) Specification. Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (§ 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (§ 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (§ 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (§ 1.835), must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification, in the manner specified in this section.

Once a paragraph or section is amended in a first amendment document, the paragraph or section shall not be represented in a subsequent amendment document unless it is amended again or a substitute specification is provided.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c)Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-eea4a4f5d0be4894b8aded61]
Format for Submitting Amendment Papers Required
Note:
Applicants must submit amendment papers in a specific format including cover sheet, specification amendments, claims amendments, drawings amendments, remarks section, and any new or annotated drawings.
It is recommended that applicants use the following format when submitting amendment papers. The amendment papers should include, in the following order:
  • (A) a cover sheet, or introductory comments, providing the appropriate application information (e.g., application number, applicant, filing date) and which serves as a table of contents to the amendment document by indicating on what page of the amendment document each of the following sections begin;
  • (B) a section (must begin on a separate sheet) entitled “Amendments to the Specification” (if there are any amendments to the specification). This section should include all amendments to the specification including amendments to the abstract of the disclosure. A more detailed discussion is provided in subsection II.B below;
  • (C) a section (must begin on a separate sheet) entitled “Amendments to the Claims” which includes a complete listing of all claims ever presented in the application (if there are any amendments to the claims). A more detailed discussion is provided in subsection II.C below;
  • (D) a section (must begin on a separate sheet) entitled “Amendments to the Drawings” in which all changes to the drawings are discussed (if there are any amendments to the drawings). A more detailed discussion is provided in subsection II.D below;
  • (E) a remarks section (must begin on a separate sheet); and
  • (F) any drawings being submitted including any “Replacement Sheet,” “New Sheet,” or “Annotated Sheet.”
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing FormatComponents Required for Filing DateFiling Date Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-2cb781636224a9e8e3ce0fd1]
Amendments to Specification Must Be Made by Adding, Deleting, or Replacing Paragraphs
Note:
The specification must be amended by adding, deleting, or replacing paragraphs, sections, or providing a substitute specification. Changes to specific types of listings require different procedures.

Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (37 CFR 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (37 CFR 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (37 CFR 1.835) must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification (37 CFR 1.125). Changes to "Large Tables,” a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” a “Sequence Listing”, or a “Sequence Listing XML” must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.58(g) for “Large Tables,” 37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) for a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” 37 CFR 1.825 for a “Sequence Listing,” or 37 CFR 1.835 for a “Sequence Listing XML.” In order to delete, replace or add a paragraph to the specification of an application, the amendment must unambiguously identify the paragraph to be modified either by paragraph number (see MPEP § 608.01), page and line, or any other unambiguous method and be accompanied by any replacement or new paragraph(s). Replacement paragraphs must include markings to show the changes. A separate clean version of any replacement paragraphs is not required. Any new paragraphs must be presented in clean form without any markings (i.e., underlining).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c))Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-478e08be66298d6e35a7b365]
Changes to Sequence Listing Must Follow Specific Rules
Note:
Modifications to sequence listings must comply with specific regulations outlined in 37 CFR sections for large tables, computer program listing appendices, and sequence listings.

Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (37 CFR 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (37 CFR 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (37 CFR 1.835) must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification (37 CFR 1.125). Changes to "Large Tables,” a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” a “Sequence Listing”, or a “Sequence Listing XML” must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.58(g) for “Large Tables,” 37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) for a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” 37 CFR 1.825 for a “Sequence Listing,” or 37 CFR 1.835 for a “Sequence Listing XML.” In order to delete, replace or add a paragraph to the specification of an application, the amendment must unambiguously identify the paragraph to be modified either by paragraph number (see MPEP § 608.01), page and line, or any other unambiguous method and be accompanied by any replacement or new paragraph(s). Replacement paragraphs must include markings to show the changes. A separate clean version of any replacement paragraphs is not required. Any new paragraphs must be presented in clean form without any markings (i.e., underlining).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c))Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-1bdcc9cf4bce53a229b0e522]
Amendment Must Identify Paragraph Unambiguously
Note:
The amendment to the specification must clearly identify the paragraph to be modified using paragraph number, page and line, or another unambiguous method.

Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (37 CFR 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (37 CFR 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (37 CFR 1.835) must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification (37 CFR 1.125). Changes to "Large Tables,” a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” a “Sequence Listing”, or a “Sequence Listing XML” must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.58(g) for “Large Tables,” 37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) for a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” 37 CFR 1.825 for a “Sequence Listing,” or 37 CFR 1.835 for a “Sequence Listing XML.” In order to delete, replace or add a paragraph to the specification of an application, the amendment must unambiguously identify the paragraph to be modified either by paragraph number (see MPEP § 608.01), page and line, or any other unambiguous method and be accompanied by any replacement or new paragraph(s). Replacement paragraphs must include markings to show the changes. A separate clean version of any replacement paragraphs is not required. Any new paragraphs must be presented in clean form without any markings (i.e., underlining).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c))Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-dbc2c09267dc34ebccda45a2]
Replacement Paragraphs Must Include Markings
Note:
Amendments to the specification must clearly mark changes in replacement paragraphs.

Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (37 CFR 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (37 CFR 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (37 CFR 1.835) must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification (37 CFR 1.125). Changes to "Large Tables,” a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” a “Sequence Listing”, or a “Sequence Listing XML” must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.58(g) for “Large Tables,” 37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) for a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” 37 CFR 1.825 for a “Sequence Listing,” or 37 CFR 1.835 for a “Sequence Listing XML.” In order to delete, replace or add a paragraph to the specification of an application, the amendment must unambiguously identify the paragraph to be modified either by paragraph number (see MPEP § 608.01), page and line, or any other unambiguous method and be accompanied by any replacement or new paragraph(s). Replacement paragraphs must include markings to show the changes. A separate clean version of any replacement paragraphs is not required. Any new paragraphs must be presented in clean form without any markings (i.e., underlining).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c))Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-b9858db51b664d458910556a]
Specification Amendments Must Include Markings
Note:
Amendments to the specification must include markings for changes and be presented in clean form without any underlining.

Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (37 CFR 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (37 CFR 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (37 CFR 1.835) must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification (37 CFR 1.125). Changes to "Large Tables,” a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” a “Sequence Listing”, or a “Sequence Listing XML” must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.58(g) for “Large Tables,” 37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) for a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” 37 CFR 1.825 for a “Sequence Listing,” or 37 CFR 1.835 for a “Sequence Listing XML.” In order to delete, replace or add a paragraph to the specification of an application, the amendment must unambiguously identify the paragraph to be modified either by paragraph number (see MPEP § 608.01), page and line, or any other unambiguous method and be accompanied by any replacement or new paragraph(s). Replacement paragraphs must include markings to show the changes. A separate clean version of any replacement paragraphs is not required. Any new paragraphs must be presented in clean form without any markings (i.e., underlining).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c))Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-097625a3b21a670b2b782387]
Amendments to Specification Must Be Clear
Note:
Changes to the specification must be presented in clean form without any markings and clearly identify the paragraph, page, or line being modified.

Amendments to the specification, other than the claims, “Large Tables” (37 CFR 1.58(c)), a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” (37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) and (7)), a “Sequence Listing” (37 CFR 1.825), or a “Sequence Listing XML” (37 CFR 1.835) must be made by adding, deleting, or replacing a paragraph; by replacing a section; or by providing a substitute specification (37 CFR 1.125). Changes to "Large Tables,” a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” a “Sequence Listing”, or a “Sequence Listing XML” must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.58(g) for “Large Tables,” 37 CFR 1.96(c)(5) for a “Computer Program Listing Appendix,” 37 CFR 1.825 for a “Sequence Listing,” or 37 CFR 1.835 for a “Sequence Listing XML.” In order to delete, replace or add a paragraph to the specification of an application, the amendment must unambiguously identify the paragraph to be modified either by paragraph number (see MPEP § 608.01), page and line, or any other unambiguous method and be accompanied by any replacement or new paragraph(s). Replacement paragraphs must include markings to show the changes. A separate clean version of any replacement paragraphs is not required. Any new paragraphs must be presented in clean form without any markings (i.e., underlining).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.58(c))Sequence Listing FormatSequence Listing RequirementsPatent Application Content
Topic

Claims

18 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-e8f666c5c019fcfc94ce490b]
Examiner’s Changes to Claims Allowed
Note:
Allows specific instructions for inserting or deleting claim language as per the examiner's amendment without requiring compliance with other submission requirements.

(g) Exception for examiner’s amendments. Changes to the specification, including the claims, of an application made by the Office in an examiner’s amendment may be made by specific instructions to insert or delete subject matter set forth in the examiner’s amendment by identifying the precise point in the specification or the claim(s) where the insertion or deletion is to be made. Compliance with paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), or (c) of this section is not required.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-4aaffdbf82204ad47d45ef38]
Specification Changes by Examiner’s Amendment Must Be Precisely Identified
Note:
Changes to the specification and claims made by the Office in an examiner’s amendment must be specified by identifying the exact location for insertion or deletion.

(g) Exception for examiner’s amendments. Changes to the specification, including the claims, of an application made by the Office in an examiner’s amendment may be made by specific instructions to insert or delete subject matter set forth in the examiner’s amendment by identifying the precise point in the specification or the claim(s) where the insertion or deletion is to be made. Compliance with paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), or (c) of this section is not required.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-5c2fe6db81fe01c9ee6feb71]
Examiner’s Changes to Claims Not Subject to Section Requirements
Note:
Changes made by the examiner to the claims do not require compliance with specific instructions under section (b)(1), (b)(2), or (c).

(g) Exception for examiner’s amendments. Changes to the specification, including the claims, of an application made by the Office in an examiner’s amendment may be made by specific instructions to insert or delete subject matter set forth in the examiner’s amendment by identifying the precise point in the specification or the claim(s) where the insertion or deletion is to be made. Compliance with paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), or (c) of this section is not required.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-2631484e0ff32e21eac35e9c]
Acceptable Alternative Status Identifiers for Claims
Note:
The Office may accept alternative status identifiers for claims if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121.

A canceled claim can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number. The original numbering of the claims must be preserved throughout the prosecution. When claims are canceled, the remaining claims must not be renumbered. For example, when applicant cancels all of the claims in the original specification and adds a new set of claims, the claim listing must include all of the canceled claims with the status identifier (canceled) (the canceled claims may be aggregated into one statement). The new claims must be numbered consecutively beginning with the number next following the highest numbered claim previously presented (whether entered or not) in compliance with 37 CFR 1.126. (E) Acceptable Alternative Status Identifiers: To prevent delays in prosecution, the Office may waive certain provisions of 37 CFR 1.121 and accept alternative status identifiers not specifically set forth in 37 CFR 1.121(c). Accordingly claim listings that include alternative status identifiers as set forth below will be accepted if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121. See Acceptance of Certain Non-Compliant Amendments Under 37 CFR 1.121(c), 1296 OG 27 (July 5, 2005).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.126Claim Presentation and NumberingOptional Claim Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-068919b890055d6db0edaf77]
Examiner Can Amend Claims Without Replacement
Note:
The Office can make amendments to claims without replacing paragraphs, sections, or claims to expedite prosecution.

37 CFR 1.121(g) permits the Office to make amendments to the specification, including the claims, by examiner’s amendments without paragraph/section/claim replacement in the interest of expediting prosecution and reducing cycle time. Additions or deletions of subject matter in the specification, including the claims, may be made by instructions to make the change at a precise location in the specification or the claims. Examiner’s amendments do not need to comply with paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), or (c) of 37 CFR 1.121. See MPEP § 1302.04.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121(g)Patent Application Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-a14d30d2e666daaa3098f3a8]
Examiner’s Amendments Not Bound by Specific Rules
Note:
Examiner’s amendments to the specification and claims do not need to follow specific rules regarding paragraph replacements.

37 CFR 1.121(g) permits the Office to make amendments to the specification, including the claims, by examiner’s amendments without paragraph/section/claim replacement in the interest of expediting prosecution and reducing cycle time. Additions or deletions of subject matter in the specification, including the claims, may be made by instructions to make the change at a precise location in the specification or the claims. Examiner’s amendments do not need to comply with paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), or (c) of 37 CFR 1.121. See MPEP § 1302.04.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121(g)Patent Application Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-34cc5f568c0fe4cab7908641]
Two-Month Reply Period for Non-Final Amendment
Note:
If a non-final amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with the requirements, the Office will notify applicant and set a two-month time period for reply.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

(C) A non-final amendment including an amendment filed as a submission for an RCE, the TSS will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-05e9c69236d1c0963bf2bac4]
Extension of Time for Compliance with Claims Requirement
Note:
If an amendment fails to comply with the claims section requirements, applicant is given a period under 37 CFR 1.136(a) to correct it.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Extensions of time are available under 37 CFR 1.136(a).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-595ee785644dfd08901da161]
Response Required for Non-Compliant Amendment
Note:
Applicant must respond to a notice of non-compliant amendment within two months to avoid abandonment of the application.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Failure to reply to this notice will result in abandonment of the application.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-1ab6ed66dccd9901bf2016e9]
Corrected Section Required for Non-Compliant Amendments
Note:
Applicant must include the corrected section of the amendment in response to a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-6660b885089eb2daeeba3f74]
Supplemental Amendment Not Entered As Right
Note:
A supplemental amendment filed without suspension of action will be forwarded to the examiner but not entered as a matter of right.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

(E) A supplemental amendment filed when there is no suspension of action under 37 CFR 1.103(a) or (c), the amendment will be forwarded to the examiner.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-7858d99079970657d8b21e97]
Supplemental Amendment Not Entered As Right
Note:
If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and is a supplemental amendment, it will not be entered as a matter of right.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Such a supplemental amendment is not entered as a matter of right. See 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)(ii).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-50f48be4034b32c50bc2d94c]
Examiner Will Notify Applicant If Amendment Not Approved
Note:
The examiner must inform the applicant if an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, does not comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The examiner will notify the applicant if the amendment is not approved for entry.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-ff09b33ad8c3e6309ba61c1d]
Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment Required
Note:
The Office must notify the applicant if an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The examiner may use form paragraph 7.147. See MPEP § 714.03(a).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-84145791388f78458ba1a72f]
Two-Month Reply Period for Non-Compliant Amendments
Note:
Applicants must reply within two months if their amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 after a Quayle action.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

(G) An amendment filed in response to a Quayle action, the TSS will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-49444a21b72df2099781ebf5]
Extension of Time for Compliance with Claims Requirement
Note:
If an amendment fails to comply with the claims requirement, applicant has a period of time to correct it under 37 CFR 1.136(a).

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Extensions of time are available under 37 CFR 1.136(a).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-2a31897f7705256c061bf5f2]
Response Required for Non-Compliant Amendment
Note:
Applicant must reply to a notice of non-compliant amendment within two months to avoid application abandonment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Failure to reply to this notice will result in abandonment of the application.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-4cd30410470577d866a4fe41]
Reply Required for Non-Compliant Amendment
Note:
Applicant must submit a corrected section of the amendment within two months if it fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentSequence Listing Requirements
Topic

Sequence Listing Content

18 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-69ae87d7a28d034d6fa295e9]
Status Identifier for Denied Claims
Note:
Claims previously proposed in an amendment that was denied entry must be marked with (not entered).

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
(A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers. The status identifier (not entered) is used for claims that were previously proposed in an amendment (e.g., after-final) that was denied entry.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-e4ce7e85dfa8ea40a29cb856]
Non-Elected Claims Must Be Marked Withdrawn
Note:
Any claims that are non-elected in response to a restriction or election of species requirement and any subsequent amendment must be marked with the status identifier (withdrawn).

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
(A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers. For any amendment being filed in response to a restriction or election of species requirement and any subsequent amendment, any claims which are non-elected must have the status identifier (withdrawn). Any non-elected claims which are being amended must have either the status identifier (withdrawn) or (withdrawn – currently amended) and the text of the non-elected claims must be presented with markings to indicate the changes. Any non-elected claims that are being canceled must have the status identifier (canceled).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-da7f8141826873934bb2cee3]
Non-Elected Claims Must Be Marked Withdrawn
Note:
Claims that are non-elected but being amended must have the status identifier (withdrawn) or (withdrawn – currently amended), and any changes must be marked.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
(A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers. For any amendment being filed in response to a restriction or election of species requirement and any subsequent amendment, any claims which are non-elected must have the status identifier (withdrawn). Any non-elected claims which are being amended must have either the status identifier (withdrawn) or (withdrawn – currently amended) and the text of the non-elected claims must be presented with markings to indicate the changes. Any non-elected claims that are being canceled must have the status identifier (canceled).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-0000c2dfc6647fbb781f6d3f]
Canceled Claims Must Have Status Identifier
Note:
All canceled claims must be marked with the status identifier (canceled) in amendment documents.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
(A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers. For any amendment being filed in response to a restriction or election of species requirement and any subsequent amendment, any claims which are non-elected must have the status identifier (withdrawn). Any non-elected claims which are being amended must have either the status identifier (withdrawn) or (withdrawn – currently amended) and the text of the non-elected claims must be presented with markings to indicate the changes. Any non-elected claims that are being canceled must have the status identifier (canceled).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-deb29cd6ae9cde6bdbd20f79]
Claims Added by Amendment Must Be Marked as New
Note:
Any new claims added through amendment must be marked with ‘new’ and not underlined.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
(B) Markings to Show the Changes: All claims being currently amended must be presented with markings to indicate the changes that have been made relative to the immediate prior version. The changes in any amended claim must be shown by strike-through (for deleted matter) or underlining (for added matter) with 2 exceptions: (1) for deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters, double brackets may be used (e.g., [[eroor]]); (2) if strike-through cannot be easily perceived (e.g., deletion of number “4” or certain punctuation marks), double brackets must be used (e.g., [[4]]). As an alternative to using double brackets, however, extra portions of text may be included before and after text being deleted, all in strike-through, followed by including and underlining the extra text with the desired change (e.g., number 4 as number 14 as). An accompanying clean version is not required and should not be presented. Only claims of the status “currently amended” or “withdrawn” will include markings. Any claims added by amendment must be indicated as “new” and the text of the claim must not be underlined.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-0d70df60e925ed5fd6e3477c]
Claims Must Show Changes With Markings
Note:
All currently amended claims must be marked to show changes, using strike-through for deletions and underlining for additions.
(B) Markings to Show the Changes: All claims being currently amended must be presented with markings to indicate the changes that have been made relative to the immediate prior version. The changes in any amended claim must be shown by strike-through (for deleted matter) or underlining (for added matter) with 2 exceptions: (1) for deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters, double brackets may be used (e.g., [[eroor]]); (2) if strike-through cannot be easily perceived (e.g., deletion of number “4” or certain punctuation marks), double brackets must be used (e.g., [[4]]). As an alternative to using double brackets, however, extra portions of text may be included before and after text being deleted, all in strike-through, followed by including and underlining the extra text with the desired change (e.g., number 4 as number 14 as). An accompanying clean version is not required and should not be presented. Only claims of the status “currently amended” or “withdrawn” will include markings.
  • Any claims added by amendment must be indicated as “new” and the text of the claim must not be underlined.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-dcdb85a8634c9e367a3eabef]
Claims Must List All Ever Presented
Note:
All claims ever presented, including withdrawn and canceled ones, must be listed with their current status and text in each amendment document.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

(C) Claim Text:

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-d3aa08b89235f9b32bc4e442]
Claims Must Include All Versions
Note:
All pending and withdrawn claims must be included in any claim amendment, showing their current status and text.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

The text of all pending claims under examination and withdrawn claims must be submitted each time any claim is amended.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-e7c0c27c711b0d222fb29887]
Claims Must Be Presented Cleanly Without Markings
Note:
Pending claims not currently amended, including withdrawn claims, must be presented in a clean version without any markings.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

The text of pending claims not being currently amended, including withdrawn claims, must be presented in clean version, i.e., without any markings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-123bbd2338f38d0ff15448db]
Claims Must Be Presented Without Markings
Note:
Any claim presented in clean version asserts it has not been changed except to omit previous markings.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

Any claim presented in clean version will constitute an assertion that it has not been changed relative to the immediate prior version except to omit markings that may have been present in the immediate prior version of the claims.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-cb468dfdcd0912515110b093]
Canceled Claims Must Not Include Text
Note:
Claims that are canceled must be indicated as 'canceled' without presenting the text of the claim.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

A claim being canceled must be indicated as “canceled;” the text of the claim must not be presented.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-7f4fb8f516aad7f4a366708f]
Cancellation of Claim Optional
Note:
An instruction to cancel a claim is optional when amending claims in an application.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

Providing an instruction to cancel is optional.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-5685dbd12b8fa07c00f44f97]
Canceled and Not Entered Claims Must Be Listed by Number Only
Note:
Claims that are canceled must be listed with their number and status identifier, without including the claim text.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

Canceled and not entered claims must be listed by only the claim number and status identifier, without presenting the text of the claims.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-33f596606c0460e61fc5e7f4]
Amendment May Include Canceled Claims
Note:
The Office may accept an amendment that includes the text of canceled claims if it otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121, reducing processing time.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

When applicant submits the text of canceled or not-entered claims in the amendment, the Office may accept such an amendment, if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121, instead of sending out a notice of non-compliant amendment to reduce the processing time.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-4fce449f82f35b50d1339cd2]
Claims Must Be Listed and Marked
Note:
Each amendment document must list all claims ever presented, including canceled and withdrawn ones, with status identifiers and current markings.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

(D) Claim Numbering:

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-feea8374a9768bcfa702a3de]
Claims Must Be Listed in Ascending Order
Note:
All claims in each amendment paper must be presented in ascending numerical order.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

All of the claims in each amendment paper must be presented in ascending numerical order.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-909c0409d3e5b4d4e1f06345]
Claims 1-5 Canceled Must Be Aggregated
Note:
Consecutive canceled claims must be aggregated into one statement in the amendment document.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.

Consecutive canceled or not entered claims may be aggregated into one statement (e.g., Claims 1 – 5 (canceled)).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-16a669d86f109b6932afe9a1]
Examiner May Enter Non-Compliant Amendment with Corrected Status Identifiers
Note:
The examiner can enter a non-compliant amendment that would otherwise place the application in condition for allowance and correct any non-compliant status identifiers using an examiner’s amendment.
If a non-compliant amendment would otherwise place the application in condition for allowance, the examiner may enter the non-compliant amendment and provide an examiner’s amendment to correct the non-compliance (e.g., an incorrect status identifier). Similarly, if an amendment under 37 CFR 1.312 after allowance is non-compliant under 37 CFR 1.121 and the entry of the amendment would have been otherwise recommended, the examiner may enter the amendment and correct the non-compliance (e.g., an incorrect status identifier) using an examiner’s amendment. See subsection “F. Non-Compliant Amendments” for more information on non-compliant amendments. For example, if some of the status identifiers are incorrect in an amendment, the examiner may enter the non-compliant amendment and:
  • (A) provide a claim listing presenting all of the claims with the proper status identifiers in an examiner’s amendment;
  • (B) print a copy of the claim listing of the non-compliant amendment, cross out the improper status identifiers, write in the correct status identifiers and include it as an attachment to an examiner’s amendment; or
  • (C) correct the improper status identifiers by instructions in an examiner’s amendment.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.312Sequence Listing ContentSequence Listing Requirements
Topic

Patent Application Content

14 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-2085fcb3c9b70f520a08198e]
Disclosure Must Be Amended to Correct Inaccuracies and Secure Correspondence
Note:
The disclosure must be updated as required by the Office to fix any inaccuracies and ensure that claims, specification, and drawings are consistent.

(e) Disclosure consistency. The disclosure must be amended, when required by the Office, to correct inaccuracies of description and definition, and to secure substantial correspondence between the claims, the remainder of the specification, and the drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-fa73f39007c3f97ce40358bd]
Amendments to Correct Specification Inaccuracies
Note:
The disclosure must be corrected by the Office to ensure accuracy and consistency with claims, specification, and drawings.

(e) Disclosure consistency. The disclosure must be amended, when required by the Office, to correct inaccuracies of description and definition, and to secure substantial correspondence between the claims, the remainder of the specification, and the drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-a997ead6df53552a81a81423]
Each Amendment Section Must Begin on a New Sheet
Note:
Each section of an amendment document, such as claims or specification amendments, must start on a separate sheet.

(h) Amendment sections. Each section of an amendment document (e.g., amendment to the claims, amendment to the specification, replacement drawings, and remarks) must begin on a separate sheet.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-7dcbf118e51180d78af84834]
Each Section of an Amendment Must Begin on a Separate Sheet
Note:
Each section of the amendment document, including claims, specification, drawings, and remarks, must start on its own sheet.

(h) Amendment sections. Each section of an amendment document (e.g., amendment to the claims, amendment to the specification, replacement drawings, and remarks) must begin on a separate sheet.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-fedf3eadaee77ed573082ec6]
Specification Amendments Permitted
Note:
Applicants can amend the specification by replacing sections, showing changes with underlining and strike-through.

Applicants are also permitted to amend the specification by replacement sections (e.g., as provided in 37 CFR 1.77(b), 1.154(b), or 1.163(c)). As with replacement paragraphs, the amended version of a replacement section is required to be provided with markings to show all the changes relative to the previous version of the section. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show the deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.77(b)Patent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-5386409941c4ba2305e844cb]
Amended Specification Sections Must Show Changes
Note:
The amended version of a replacement section must be marked to show all changes relative to the previous version.

Applicants are also permitted to amend the specification by replacement sections (e.g., as provided in 37 CFR 1.77(b), 1.154(b), or 1.163(c)). As with replacement paragraphs, the amended version of a replacement section is required to be provided with markings to show all the changes relative to the previous version of the section. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show the deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.77(b)Patent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-bdaa9ddaf4b68efac5ba581b]
Amended Specification Must Show Added Text By Underlining
Note:
The amended specification must show any added subject matter by underlining the new text.

Applicants are also permitted to amend the specification by replacement sections (e.g., as provided in 37 CFR 1.77(b), 1.154(b), or 1.163(c)). As with replacement paragraphs, the amended version of a replacement section is required to be provided with markings to show all the changes relative to the previous version of the section. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show the deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.77(b)Patent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-7aa2693fa314fa7af077d2ac]
Deleted Subject Matter Must Be Struck Through
Note:
The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by strike-through, except for deletions of five or fewer consecutive characters, which may be marked with double brackets.

Applicants are also permitted to amend the specification by replacement sections (e.g., as provided in 37 CFR 1.77(b), 1.154(b), or 1.163(c)). As with replacement paragraphs, the amended version of a replacement section is required to be provided with markings to show all the changes relative to the previous version of the section. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show the deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.77(b)Patent Application Content
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-2f3f62f58aefaedddfa39a98]
Deleted Text Must Be Bracketed
Note:
The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Applicants are also permitted to amend the specification by replacement sections (e.g., as provided in 37 CFR 1.77(b), 1.154(b), or 1.163(c)). As with replacement paragraphs, the amended version of a replacement section is required to be provided with markings to show all the changes relative to the previous version of the section. The text of any added subject matter must be shown by underlining the added text. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by strike-through except that double brackets placed before and after the deleted characters may be used to show the deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters. The text of any deleted subject matter must be shown by being placed within double brackets if strike-through cannot be easily perceived.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.77(b)Patent Application Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-81f89f0a8f0a16662c1ceee3]
Specification Amendments Must Meet Specific Requirements
Note:
Applicants can submit a substitute specification to amend the original, but must comply with specific conditions outlined in 37 CFR 1.125.

Applicants are also permitted to amend the specification by submitting a substitute specification, provided the requirements of 37 CFR 1.125(b) and (c) are met. Under 37 CFR 1.125, a clean version of the substitute specification, a separate marked up version showing the changes in the specification relative to the previous version, and a statement that the substitute specification contains no new matter are required.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.125(b)Patent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-f893dd9648b81b2d191ac632]
Substitute Specification Requires Clean, Marked Up Versions and No New Matter
Note:
Applicants must submit a clean substitute specification, a marked up version showing changes, and a statement that the new specification contains no additional matter.

Applicants are also permitted to amend the specification by submitting a substitute specification, provided the requirements of 37 CFR 1.125(b) and (c) are met. Under 37 CFR 1.125, a clean version of the substitute specification, a separate marked up version showing the changes in the specification relative to the previous version, and a statement that the substitute specification contains no new matter are required.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.125(b)Patent Application Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-03d864f002d469d7ca562c7e]
Examiner Can Amend Specification Precisely
Note:
The examiner can make additions or deletions to the specification, including claims, by specifying exact locations without following certain requirements.

37 CFR 1.121(g) permits the Office to make amendments to the specification, including the claims, by examiner’s amendments without paragraph/section/claim replacement in the interest of expediting prosecution and reducing cycle time. Additions or deletions of subject matter in the specification, including the claims, may be made by instructions to make the change at a precise location in the specification or the claims. Examiner’s amendments do not need to comply with paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), or (c) of 37 CFR 1.121. See MPEP § 1302.04.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121(g)Patent Application Content
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-7c85941884dfe155d1c04503]
Amended Specification Must Be Rewritten Entirely
Note:
When amending a specification paragraph, it must be completely rewritten and the original version canceled. Deleted matter can only be reinstated through a new amendment.

When a replacement paragraph or section of the specification is to be amended, it should be wholly rewritten and the original insertion canceled. A marked-up version of the replacement paragraph or section of the specification should be presented using underlining to indicate added subject matter and strike-through to indicate deleted subject matter. Matter canceled by amendment can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the canceled matter as a new insertion. A claim cancelled by amendment (deleted in its entirety) may be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentClaim Presentation and NumberingOriginal Claims and New Matter
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-aecf274f85018a5f57056e20]
Specification Must Be Underlined and Struck Through
Note:
The replaced specification paragraph must be marked with underlining for added text and strike-through for deleted text.

When a replacement paragraph or section of the specification is to be amended, it should be wholly rewritten and the original insertion canceled. A marked-up version of the replacement paragraph or section of the specification should be presented using underlining to indicate added subject matter and strike-through to indicate deleted subject matter. Matter canceled by amendment can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the canceled matter as a new insertion. A claim cancelled by amendment (deleted in its entirety) may be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application ContentClaim Presentation and NumberingOriginal Claims and New Matter
Topic

Amendments Adding New Matter

8 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-a07281694309927bcab51873]
Explanations of Changes Must Be Presented in Amendments Section
Note:
Applicants must provide explanations for any changes made to the drawings and include them in the 'Amendments to the Drawings' or remarks section. Failure to do so may result in notification from the examiner and a requirement to amend the specification.

An explanation of the changes made must be presented in the “Amendments to the Drawings” or the remarks section of the amendment document. If the changes to the drawing figure(s) are not approved by the examiner, applicant will be notified in the next Office action. Applicant must amend the brief and detailed description of drawings sections of the specification if they are not consistent with the changes to the drawings. For example, when applicant files a new drawing sheet, an amendment to the specification is required to add the brief and detailed description of the new drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterAmendments to ApplicationRequired Amendment Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-ca35d4310d51c63893cc7963]
Specification Must Describe New Drawings
Note:
When a new drawing sheet is filed, the specification must be amended to include a brief and detailed description of the new drawings.

An explanation of the changes made must be presented in the “Amendments to the Drawings” or the remarks section of the amendment document. If the changes to the drawing figure(s) are not approved by the examiner, applicant will be notified in the next Office action. Applicant must amend the brief and detailed description of drawings sections of the specification if they are not consistent with the changes to the drawings. For example, when applicant files a new drawing sheet, an amendment to the specification is required to add the brief and detailed description of the new drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterDrawing Amendments in ReissueAmendments to Application
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-f4f4c0d132df9315ba036da2]
Authorization Required for Substantive Examiner Amendments
Note:
The examiner’s amendment must be authorized by the applicant within the time period set forth in the last Office action if it includes substantive changes such as claim cancellation or scope modification.

Authorization and appropriate extensions of time are required if the changes made in the examiner’s amendment are substantive (e.g., the examiner’s amendment would include a cancellation of a claim or change the scope of the claims). The authorization must be given within the time period for reply set forth in the last Office action. See MPEP § 1302.04.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterAmendments to ApplicationExamination Procedures
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-b132c9e71b1f31ce13b62dd8]
After-Final Amendment Requires Unentered Status
Note:
An amendment submitted after the final Office action must be in unentered status and will not be considered until a compliant version is provided.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

(D) An after-final amendment, the amendment will be forwarded in unentered status to the examiner.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterAmendments to ApplicationCorrecting Non-Compliant Amendments
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-413734252a9b0213a8446ad2]
Examiner Must Indicate Non-Compliance in After-Final Amendment
Note:
The examiner must identify any non-compliance with 37 CFR 1.116 and provide reasons for not entering the amendment if it raises new issues requiring further search.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

In addition to providing reasons for non-entry when the amendment is not in compliance with 37 CFR 1.116 (e.g., the proposed amendment raises new issues that would require further consideration and/or search), the examiner should also indicate in the advisory action any non-compliance in the after-final amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterAmendment ComplianceAmendments to Application
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-fd0dfb9e0a7b9081cd746aed]
Defective Amendment Directions Permitted
Note:
If the directions for entering an amendment are defective, such as inaccuracy in paragraph numbers or lack of precision, the amendment can still be properly amended by the examiner if the correct place is clear from context.

The directions for the entry of an amendment may be defective. Examples include inaccuracy in the paragraph number and/or page and line designated, or a lack of precision where the paragraph or section to which insertion of the amendment is directed occurs. If the correct place of entry is clear from the context, the amendatory paper will be properly amended in the Technology Center and notation thereof, initialed in ink by the examiner, who will assume full responsibility for the change, will be made on the margin of the amendatory paper. In the next Office action, the applicant should be informed of this alteration in the amendment and the entry of the amendment as thus amended. The applicant will also be informed of the nonentry of an amendment where defective directions and context leave doubt as to the intent of applicant.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterOptional Amendment ContentAmendments to Application
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-9e9d680d69bb7743d05ecc44]
Applicant Must Be Informed of Amended Entries
Note:
The applicant must be informed about any corrections made to the amendment and how it was entered into the application.

The directions for the entry of an amendment may be defective. Examples include inaccuracy in the paragraph number and/or page and line designated, or a lack of precision where the paragraph or section to which insertion of the amendment is directed occurs. If the correct place of entry is clear from the context, the amendatory paper will be properly amended in the Technology Center and notation thereof, initialed in ink by the examiner, who will assume full responsibility for the change, will be made on the margin of the amendatory paper. In the next Office action, the applicant should be informed of this alteration in the amendment and the entry of the amendment as thus amended. The applicant will also be informed of the nonentry of an amendment where defective directions and context leave doubt as to the intent of applicant.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterAmendments to ApplicationExamination Procedures
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-3e6fe77f683a91758a200076]
Amendments Must Have Clear Directions
Note:
Applicants must provide clear directions for amendments to avoid their nonentry if the intent is unclear due to defective directions and context.

The directions for the entry of an amendment may be defective. Examples include inaccuracy in the paragraph number and/or page and line designated, or a lack of precision where the paragraph or section to which insertion of the amendment is directed occurs. If the correct place of entry is clear from the context, the amendatory paper will be properly amended in the Technology Center and notation thereof, initialed in ink by the examiner, who will assume full responsibility for the change, will be made on the margin of the amendatory paper. In the next Office action, the applicant should be informed of this alteration in the amendment and the entry of the amendment as thus amended. The applicant will also be informed of the nonentry of an amendment where defective directions and context leave doubt as to the intent of applicant.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments Adding New MatterAmendments to ApplicationColumn and Line References
Topic

Claim Presentation and Numbering

6 rules
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-309fc52a0808f0b526b22f24]
Claims Must Maintain Original Numbers When Reinstated
Note:
When reinstating canceled claims, they must retain their original numbers and be presented as new claims with a new number.
A canceled claim can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number. The original numbering of the claims must be preserved throughout the prosecution. When claims are canceled, the remaining claims must not be renumbered. For example, when applicant cancels all of the claims in the original specification and adds a new set of claims, the claim listing must include all of the canceled claims with the status identifier (canceled) (the canceled claims may be aggregated into one statement). The new claims must be numbered consecutively beginning with the number next following the highest numbered claim previously presented (whether entered or not) in compliance with 37 CFR 1.126.
  • (E) Acceptable Alternative Status Identifiers: To prevent delays in prosecution, the Office may waive certain provisions of 37 CFR 1.121 and accept alternative status identifiers not specifically set forth in 37 CFR 1.121(c). Accordingly claim listings that include alternative status identifiers as set forth below will be accepted if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121. See Acceptance of Certain Non-Compliant Amendments Under 37 CFR 1.121(c), 1296 OG 27 (July 5, 2005).
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.126Claim Presentation and NumberingOptional Claim ContentProhibited Claim Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-800cbd5c8e6f8d4b5e9ae501]
Claims Must Not Be Renumbered After Cancellation
Note:
When claims are canceled, the remaining claims must retain their original numbering and cannot be renumbered.

A canceled claim can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number. The original numbering of the claims must be preserved throughout the prosecution. When claims are canceled, the remaining claims must not be renumbered. For example, when applicant cancels all of the claims in the original specification and adds a new set of claims, the claim listing must include all of the canceled claims with the status identifier (canceled) (the canceled claims may be aggregated into one statement). The new claims must be numbered consecutively beginning with the number next following the highest numbered claim previously presented (whether entered or not) in compliance with 37 CFR 1.126. (E) Acceptable Alternative Status Identifiers: To prevent delays in prosecution, the Office may waive certain provisions of 37 CFR 1.121 and accept alternative status identifiers not specifically set forth in 37 CFR 1.121(c). Accordingly claim listings that include alternative status identifiers as set forth below will be accepted if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121. See Acceptance of Certain Non-Compliant Amendments Under 37 CFR 1.121(c), 1296 OG 27 (July 5, 2005).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.126Claim Presentation and NumberingOptional Claim ContentProhibited Claim Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-f461a80da82b19e771d3df90]
Alternative Claim Statuses Permitted
Note:
The Office may accept alternative claim status identifiers not specified in 37 CFR 1.121(c) to prevent prosecution delays.

A canceled claim can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number. The original numbering of the claims must be preserved throughout the prosecution. When claims are canceled, the remaining claims must not be renumbered. For example, when applicant cancels all of the claims in the original specification and adds a new set of claims, the claim listing must include all of the canceled claims with the status identifier (canceled) (the canceled claims may be aggregated into one statement). The new claims must be numbered consecutively beginning with the number next following the highest numbered claim previously presented (whether entered or not) in compliance with 37 CFR 1.126. (E) Acceptable Alternative Status Identifiers: To prevent delays in prosecution, the Office may waive certain provisions of 37 CFR 1.121 and accept alternative status identifiers not specifically set forth in 37 CFR 1.121(c). Accordingly claim listings that include alternative status identifiers as set forth below will be accepted if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121. See Acceptance of Certain Non-Compliant Amendments Under 37 CFR 1.121(c), 1296 OG 27 (July 5, 2005).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.126Claim Presentation and NumberingOptional Claim ContentProhibited Claim Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-ca79bf1b006578adf4f4983d]
Canceled Claims Must Be Reinstated With New Numbers
Note:
When claims are canceled, they must be reinstated with new claim numbers while preserving original numbering for remaining claims.

A canceled claim can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number. The original numbering of the claims must be preserved throughout the prosecution. When claims are canceled, the remaining claims must not be renumbered. For example, when applicant cancels all of the claims in the original specification and adds a new set of claims, the claim listing must include all of the canceled claims with the status identifier (canceled) (the canceled claims may be aggregated into one statement). The new claims must be numbered consecutively beginning with the number next following the highest numbered claim previously presented (whether entered or not) in compliance with 37 CFR 1.126. (E) Acceptable Alternative Status Identifiers: To prevent delays in prosecution, the Office may waive certain provisions of 37 CFR 1.121 and accept alternative status identifiers not specifically set forth in 37 CFR 1.121(c). Accordingly claim listings that include alternative status identifiers as set forth below will be accepted if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121. See Acceptance of Certain Non-Compliant Amendments Under 37 CFR 1.121(c), 1296 OG 27 (July 5, 2005).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.126Claim Presentation and NumberingOptional Claim ContentProhibited Claim Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-c643b6c92eec5951d8592ba9]
Canceled Claims Can Only Be Reinserted as New Claims
Note:
Claims canceled by amendment can only be reinstated through a subsequent claim presenting them with a new claim number.

When a replacement paragraph or section of the specification is to be amended, it should be wholly rewritten and the original insertion canceled. A marked-up version of the replacement paragraph or section of the specification should be presented using underlining to indicate added subject matter and strike-through to indicate deleted subject matter. Matter canceled by amendment can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the canceled matter as a new insertion. A claim cancelled by amendment (deleted in its entirety) may be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Claim Presentation and NumberingOriginal Claims and New Matter
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-b35190faffcdda018c94e77a]
Claim Can Only Be Reinstated as New Claim
Note:
A cancelled claim can only be reinstated by presenting it as a new claim with a new number.

When a replacement paragraph or section of the specification is to be amended, it should be wholly rewritten and the original insertion canceled. A marked-up version of the replacement paragraph or section of the specification should be presented using underlining to indicate added subject matter and strike-through to indicate deleted subject matter. Matter canceled by amendment can be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the canceled matter as a new insertion. A claim cancelled by amendment (deleted in its entirety) may be reinstated only by a subsequent amendment presenting the claim as a new claim with a new claim number.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Claim Presentation and NumberingOriginal Claims and New Matter
Topic

Access to Prosecution History

5 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-b577458ae0cc2cb719f0c43a]
Amendments Not Usually Made in Provisional Applications
Note:
If amendments are made to provisional applications, they must comply with specific provisions and be placed in the application file but not entered.

(k) Amendments in provisional applications. Amendments in provisional applications are not usually made. If an amendment is made to a provisional application, however, it must comply with the provisions of this section. Any amendments to a provisional application shall be placed in the provisional application file but may not be entered.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document TypesAccess to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-6c4fa372c86fef8464dfbad0]
Amendments Not Usually Made in Provisional Applications
Note:
Provisional applications generally cannot be amended. Any amendment must comply with specific provisions and be placed in the file but not entered.

(k) Amendments in provisional applications. Amendments in provisional applications are not usually made. If an amendment is made to a provisional application, however, it must comply with the provisions of this section. Any amendments to a provisional application shall be placed in the provisional application file but may not be entered.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document TypesAccess to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-5574175d3557212b6459f059]
Amendments Must Comply with Section Provisions for Provisional Applications
Note:
If an amendment is made to a provisional application, it must adhere to the specified section requirements.

(k) Amendments in provisional applications. Amendments in provisional applications are not usually made. If an amendment is made to a provisional application, however, it must comply with the provisions of this section. Any amendments to a provisional application shall be placed in the provisional application file but may not be entered.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document TypesAccess to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-4b809025394af8e45f069100]
Amendments Not Normally Made in Provisional Applications
Note:
Provisional applications generally cannot be amended. Any amendments must comply with 37 CFR 1.121 and will be recorded but not entered.

Amendments in provisional applications are not normally made. If an amendment is made to a provisional application, however, it must comply with the provisions of 37 CFR 1.121. Any amendments to a provisional application will be placed in the provisional application file, but may not be entered.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document TypesAccess to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-ae18e346d7a2edaaaac5df82]
Amendment Requirement for Provisional Application
Note:
If an amendment is made to a provisional application, it must comply with the provisions of 37 CFR 1.121.

Amendments in provisional applications are not normally made. If an amendment is made to a provisional application, however, it must comply with the provisions of 37 CFR 1.121. Any amendments to a provisional application will be placed in the provisional application file, but may not be entered.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document TypesAccess to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)
Topic

Transmittal Content

5 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-1c814700ec27438dd2cd1e9d]
No Extensions for Non-Compliant Amendments
Note:
Applicants must correct non-compliant amendments within the specified time period; no extensions are permitted.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is (A) A preliminary amendment filed after the filing date of the application, the technical support staff (TSS) will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. No extensions of time are permitted. Failure to submit a timely reply will result in the application being examined without entry of the preliminary amendment. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Transmittal ContentFiling Date Deficiency NoticeApplication Transmittal
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-cdcab931d366a59214f0b2ee]
Reply Required for Non-Compliant Amendment
Note:
Applicant must include the corrected section of the amendment in response to a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is (A) A preliminary amendment filed after the filing date of the application, the technical support staff (TSS) will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. No extensions of time are permitted. Failure to submit a timely reply will result in the application being examined without entry of the preliminary amendment. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Transmittal ContentFiling Date Deficiency NoticeApplication Transmittal
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-aadf602771f3368664b6497f]
Two-Month Reply Period for Supplemental Amendments During Suspension
Note:
If a supplemental amendment is filed during a suspension period, the applicant must reply within two months; no extensions are permitted.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

(F) A supplemental amendment filed within a suspension period under 37 CFR 1.103(a) or (c) (e.g., applicant requested a suspension of action at the time of filing an RCE), the TSS will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Transmittal ContentApplication TransmittalPatent Application Content
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-d1fb33b1d19435b4d094e856]
No Extensions for Non-Compliant Amendments
Note:
If an amendment fails to comply with the requirements, no extensions of time are permitted. Applicant must submit a timely corrected section within two months.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

No extensions of time are permitted.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Transmittal ContentApplication TransmittalPatent Application Content
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-cc8418aaa4f17d83f25b0a6c]
Reply Required for Non-Compliant Amendment
Note:
Applicant must include the corrected section of the amendment in response to a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Transmittal ContentApplication TransmittalPatent Application Content
Topic

Reissue Patent Practice

4 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-a7a89e347322e9812e9b97c6]
Amendments Must Be Filed Compliantly
Note:
Applicants must file papers directing specified amendments in their applications, excluding reissue applications, in compliance with §1.52.

(a) Amendments in applications, other than reissue applications. Amendments in applications, other than reissue applications, are made by filing a paper, in compliance with § 1.52, directing that specified amendments be made.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.52Reissue Patent Practice
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-21affc92ec7138468c04ed21]
Amendments Must Be Filed Compliantly
Note:
Specify amendments in applications by filing a paper compliant with §1.52, excluding reissue applications.

(a) Amendments in applications, other than reissue applications. Amendments in applications, other than reissue applications, are made by filing a paper, in compliance with § 1.52, directing that specified amendments be made.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.52Reissue Patent Practice
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-5820db52629f4586547bfbbd]
Amendments Must Follow §1.173 for Reissue Applications
Note:
Any changes to the description and claims in reissue applications must comply with the requirements of §1.173.

(i) Amendments in reissue applications. Any amendment to the description and claims in reissue applications must be made in accordance with § 1.173.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.173Reissue Patent PracticeAmendments in Reissue
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-9bc6850e7f20d43527e013a6]
Amendments Required for Reissue Applications
Note:
The rule outlines the specific amendments required in reissue applications as detailed in MPEP § 1453.

For amendments in ex parte reexamination proceedings see MPEP § 2250 and § 2266. For amendments by patent owner in an inter partes reexamination proceeding, see MPEP § 2666.01 and § 2672. For amendments in reissue applications, see MPEP § 1453.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Reissue Patent PracticeReissue and ReexaminationConcurrent Reissue Proceedings
Topic

Paper and Format Requirements

4 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-d7b17cd7e7b237d4dd79eebb]
Paragraph Numbering for Amendments Must Match Original
Note:
Applicants must maintain the same numbering when amending paragraphs, including replacing a single paragraph with multiple numbered ones or deleting a numbered paragraph.

Where paragraph numbering has been included in an application as provided in 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6), applicants can easily refer to a specific paragraph by number when presenting an amendment. If a numbered paragraph is to be replaced by a single paragraph, the added replacement paragraph should be numbered with the same number of the paragraph being replaced. Where more than one paragraph is to replace a single original paragraph, the added paragraphs should be numbered using the number of the original paragraph for the first replacement paragraph, followed by increasing decimal numbers for the second and subsequent added paragraphs, e.g., original paragraph [0071] has been replaced with paragraphs [0071], [0071.1], and [0071.2]. If a numbered paragraph is deleted, the numbering of the subsequent paragraphs should remain unchanged.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6)Paper and Format RequirementsGeneral Filing and Format Requirements
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-3204281c25b225ef611f9c86]
Replacement Paragraph Must Keep Same Number
Note:
When replacing a numbered paragraph with one, the new paragraph should retain the same number. If multiple paragraphs replace one, use decimal numbers starting from the original number.

Where paragraph numbering has been included in an application as provided in 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6), applicants can easily refer to a specific paragraph by number when presenting an amendment. If a numbered paragraph is to be replaced by a single paragraph, the added replacement paragraph should be numbered with the same number of the paragraph being replaced. Where more than one paragraph is to replace a single original paragraph, the added paragraphs should be numbered using the number of the original paragraph for the first replacement paragraph, followed by increasing decimal numbers for the second and subsequent added paragraphs, e.g., original paragraph [0071] has been replaced with paragraphs [0071], [0071.1], and [0071.2]. If a numbered paragraph is deleted, the numbering of the subsequent paragraphs should remain unchanged.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6)Paper and Format RequirementsGeneral Filing and Format Requirements
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-5043c71567b58b7d3c9ac97f]
Replacement Paragraphs Must Use Original Numbering
Note:
When replacing a single original paragraph with multiple paragraphs, the first replacement paragraph should use the same number as the original, and subsequent paragraphs should use increasing decimal numbers.

Where paragraph numbering has been included in an application as provided in 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6), applicants can easily refer to a specific paragraph by number when presenting an amendment. If a numbered paragraph is to be replaced by a single paragraph, the added replacement paragraph should be numbered with the same number of the paragraph being replaced. Where more than one paragraph is to replace a single original paragraph, the added paragraphs should be numbered using the number of the original paragraph for the first replacement paragraph, followed by increasing decimal numbers for the second and subsequent added paragraphs, e.g., original paragraph [0071] has been replaced with paragraphs [0071], [0071.1], and [0071.2]. If a numbered paragraph is deleted, the numbering of the subsequent paragraphs should remain unchanged.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6)Paper and Format RequirementsGeneral Filing and Format Requirements
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-f2f6ed4d5c046d950ddd4653]
Paragraph Numbering Must Remain Unchanged After Deletion
Note:
If a numbered paragraph is deleted, the numbering of subsequent paragraphs should remain unchanged.

Where paragraph numbering has been included in an application as provided in 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6), applicants can easily refer to a specific paragraph by number when presenting an amendment. If a numbered paragraph is to be replaced by a single paragraph, the added replacement paragraph should be numbered with the same number of the paragraph being replaced. Where more than one paragraph is to replace a single original paragraph, the added paragraphs should be numbered using the number of the original paragraph for the first replacement paragraph, followed by increasing decimal numbers for the second and subsequent added paragraphs, e.g., original paragraph [0071] has been replaced with paragraphs [0071], [0071.1], and [0071.2]. If a numbered paragraph is deleted, the numbering of the subsequent paragraphs should remain unchanged.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.52(b)(6)Paper and Format RequirementsGeneral Filing and Format Requirements
Topic

Issue Fees

4 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-33476e241c0832bd795ce72a]
Examiner Will Notify Applicant If After-allowance Amendment Is Not Approved For Entry
Note:
The examiner will inform the applicant if an after-allowance amendment does not meet the required standards.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The examiner will notify the applicant if the amendment is not approved for entry.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Issue FeesMaintenance Fee AmountsAmendments After Allowance
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-139c69defdd969776a4cdb2b]
Non-compliant After-Allowance Amendment Notification
Note:
The examiner will notify the applicant if an after-allowance amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 and attach a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment to PTO-271.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The examiner may attach a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment (37 CFR 1.121) to the form PTO-271, Response to Rule 312 Communication (see MPEP § 714.16(d)).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Issue FeesMaintenance Fee AmountsAmendments After Allowance
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-25ddbd5337238b8c25f2d732]
No New Time Period for After-Allowance Amendments
Note:
If an after-allowance amendment fails to comply with the requirements, no new time period is provided for correction.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The notice provides no new time period.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Issue FeesMaintenance Fee AmountsAmendments After Allowance
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-c518e0ca42cc47f715ca65f6]
Entire Corrected Amendment Before Issue Fee Payment
Note:
If an applicant wishes to file another after-allowance amendment under 37 CFR 1.312, the entire corrected amendment must be submitted before paying the issue fee.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

If applicant wishes to file another after-allowance amendment under 37 CFR 1.312, the entire corrected amendment must be submitted before the payment of the issue fee.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Issue FeesMaintenance Fee AmountsAmendments After Allowance
Topic

Article 19 Amendment Scope

3 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-fb32330db87c752a6d1a2e45]
Claims Must Include All Previous Versions
Note:
All claims, including withdrawn and canceled ones, must be listed with their status in each amendment document.
Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
  • (A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers.
    • Claims added by a preliminary amendment must have the status identifier (new) instead of (original), even when the preliminary amendment is present on the filing date of the application and such claim is treated as part of the original disclosure. If applicant files a subsequent amendment, applicant must use the status identifier (previously presented) if the claims are not being amended, or (currently amended) if the claims are being amended, in the subsequent amendment. Claims that are canceled by a preliminary amendment that is present on the filing date of the application are required to be listed and must have the status identifier (canceled) in the preliminary amendment and in any subsequent amendment.
    • The status identifier (not entered) is used for claims that were previously proposed in an amendment (e.g., after-final) that was denied entry.
    • In an amendment submitted in a U.S. national stage application, claims that were present on the international filing date or rectified pursuant to PCT Rule 91 must have the status identifier (original); claims that were amended or added under PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (previously presented); and claims that were canceled pursuant to PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (canceled). If the amendment submitted in the U.S. national stage application is making a change in a claim, the status identifier (currently amended) must be used for that claim.
    • For any amendment being filed in response to a restriction or election of species requirement and any subsequent amendment, any claims which are non-elected must have the status identifier (withdrawn). Any non-elected claims which are being amended must have either the status identifier (withdrawn) or (withdrawn – currently amended) and the text of the non-elected claims must be presented with markings to indicate the changes. Any non-elected claims that are being canceled must have the status identifier (canceled).
  • (B) Markings to Show the Changes: All claims being currently amended must be presented with markings to indicate the changes that have been made relative to the immediate prior version. The changes in any amended claim must be shown by strike-through (for deleted matter) or underlining (for added matter) with 2 exceptions: (1) for deletion of five or fewer consecutive characters, double brackets may be used (e.g., [[eroor]]); (2) if strike-through cannot be easily perceived (e.g., deletion of number “4” or certain punctuation marks), double brackets must be used (e.g., [[4]]). As an alternative to using double brackets, however, extra portions of text may be included before and after text being deleted, all in strike-through, followed by including and underlining the extra text with the desired change (e.g., number 4 as number 14 as). An accompanying clean version is not required and should not be presented. Only claims of the status “currently amended” or “withdrawn” will include markings.
    • Any claims added by amendment must be indicated as “new” and the text of the claim must not be underlined.
  • (C) Claim Text: The text of all pending claims under examination and withdrawn claims must be submitted each time any claim is amended. The text of pending claims not being currently amended, including withdrawn claims, must be presented in clean version, i.e., without any markings. Any claim presented in clean version will constitute an assertion that it has not been changed relative to the immediate prior version except to omit markings that may have been present in the immediate prior version of the claims. A claim being canceled must be indicated as “canceled;” the text of the claim must not be presented. Providing an instruction to cancel is optional. Canceled and not entered claims must be listed by only the claim number and status identifier, without presenting the text of the claims. When applicant submits the text of canceled or not-entered claims in the amendment, the Office may accept such an amendment, if the amendment otherwise complies with 37 CFR 1.121, instead of sending out a notice of non-compliant amendment to reduce the processing time.
  • (D) Claim Numbering: All of the claims in each amendment paper must be presented in ascending numerical order. Consecutive canceled or not entered claims may be aggregated into one statement (e.g., Claims 1 – 5 (canceled)).
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Article 19 Amendment ScopeStatement Under Article 19PCT Claims Format
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-5cf853a3456737057df3bb69]
Claims Amended Under PCT Article 19 Must Have Status Identifier
Note:
Claims amended under PCT Article 19 in the U.S. national stage application must be marked with a specific status identifier.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
(A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers. In an amendment submitted in a U.S. national stage application, claims that were present on the international filing date or rectified pursuant to PCT Rule 91 must have the status identifier (original); claims that were amended or added under PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (previously presented); and claims that were canceled pursuant to PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (canceled). If the amendment submitted in the U.S. national stage application is making a change in a claim, the status identifier (currently amended) must be used for that claim.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Article 19 Amendment ScopeStatement Under Article 19International Filing Date
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-140d4a80eaae482bf96c0ad7]
Claim Status Must Be Indicated
Note:
The current status of all claims, including canceled and withdrawn ones, must be indicated after each claim number in a parenthetical expression.
(A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers.
  • Claims added by a preliminary amendment must have the status identifier (new) instead of (original), even when the preliminary amendment is present on the filing date of the application and such claim is treated as part of the original disclosure. If applicant files a subsequent amendment, applicant must use the status identifier (previously presented) if the claims are not being amended, or (currently amended) if the claims are being amended, in the subsequent amendment. Claims that are canceled by a preliminary amendment that is present on the filing date of the application are required to be listed and must have the status identifier (canceled) in the preliminary amendment and in any subsequent amendment.
  • The status identifier (not entered) is used for claims that were previously proposed in an amendment (e.g., after-final) that was denied entry.
  • In an amendment submitted in a U.S. national stage application, claims that were present on the international filing date or rectified pursuant to PCT Rule 91 must have the status identifier (original); claims that were amended or added under PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (previously presented); and claims that were canceled pursuant to PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (canceled). If the amendment submitted in the U.S. national stage application is making a change in a claim, the status identifier (currently amended) must be used for that claim.
  • For any amendment being filed in response to a restriction or election of species requirement and any subsequent amendment, any claims which are non-elected must have the status identifier (withdrawn). Any non-elected claims which are being amended must have either the status identifier (withdrawn) or (withdrawn – currently amended) and the text of the non-elected claims must be presented with markings to indicate the changes. Any non-elected claims that are being canceled must have the status identifier (canceled).
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Article 19 Amendment ScopePCT Claims FormatPCT Article 19 Amendments
Topic

Shortened Statutory Period

3 rules
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-1f974b12fb19106c1e17b8f1]
Examiner’s Amendment Must Include Non-Compliance Reason and Correction
Note:
The examiner’s amendment must state why it is non-compliant and how it was corrected, without requiring applicant or attorney/agent approval if changes are not substantive.

The examiner’s amendment should include the reason why the amendment is non-compliant and indicate how it was corrected. Authorization from the applicant or attorney/agent of record and appropriate extensions of time are not required if the changes are not substantive (e.g., corrections of format errors or typographical errors). Such an examiner’s amendment may be made after the time period for reply, or after the shortened statutory period without any extensions of time, as long as the non-compliant amendment was timely filed.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Shortened Statutory PeriodStatutory Period Computation (37 CFR 1.134)Period for Reply (37 CFR 1.134)
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-a6ff35dd8f0bcfe968028e9b]
Examiner’s Amendment for Format Errors Not Requiring Applicant’s Approval
Note:
An examiner's amendment correcting format errors does not require the applicant’s or attorney/agent of record’s approval, even after the shortened statutory period.

The examiner’s amendment should include the reason why the amendment is non-compliant and indicate how it was corrected. Authorization from the applicant or attorney/agent of record and appropriate extensions of time are not required if the changes are not substantive (e.g., corrections of format errors or typographical errors). Such an examiner’s amendment may be made after the time period for reply, or after the shortened statutory period without any extensions of time, as long as the non-compliant amendment was timely filed.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Shortened Statutory PeriodStatutory Period Computation (37 CFR 1.134)Period for Reply (37 CFR 1.134)
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-dc5e43a677a73535e3aaaf6e]
Examiner’s Amendment After Reply Period
Note:
An examiner's amendment can be made after the reply period if it was timely filed, even without additional extensions of time.

The examiner’s amendment should include the reason why the amendment is non-compliant and indicate how it was corrected. Authorization from the applicant or attorney/agent of record and appropriate extensions of time are not required if the changes are not substantive (e.g., corrections of format errors or typographical errors). Such an examiner’s amendment may be made after the time period for reply, or after the shortened statutory period without any extensions of time, as long as the non-compliant amendment was timely filed.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Shortened Statutory PeriodStatutory Period Computation (37 CFR 1.134)Period for Reply (37 CFR 1.134)
Topic

Examination Procedures

3 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-dad7ca989217ab741b65cb69]
Authorization Required Within Last Office Action Time Period
Note:
Applicant must provide authorization for substantive changes within the time frame specified in the last Office action.

Authorization and appropriate extensions of time are required if the changes made in the examiner’s amendment are substantive (e.g., the examiner’s amendment would include a cancellation of a claim or change the scope of the claims). The authorization must be given within the time period for reply set forth in the last Office action. See MPEP § 1302.04.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Examination ProceduresAmendments to ApplicationAmendments Adding New Matter
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-42cc2ea8c3920457df81efd3]
Time Period for Reply Continues After Final Action
Note:
Applicants must respond to the final Office action within the time period specified, regardless of any non-compliant amendments submitted after July 30, 2003.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The time period for reply continues to run from the mailing of the final Office action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Examination ProceduresCorrecting Non-Compliant AmendmentsNotice of Non-Compliant Amendment
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-3532d649349b5a590e33fa93]
Response to Final Office Action Required to Avoid Abandonment
Note:
Applicants must respond to the final Office action within the time period set forth to avoid abandoning their application.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Applicant still needs to respond to the final Office action to avoid abandonment of the application.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Examination ProceduresCorrecting Non-Compliant AmendmentsNotice of Non-Compliant Amendment
Topic

Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments

3 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-302955b92b83b13e1636ddb2]
Notice for Non-Compliant Amendments Required
Note:
Applicants must receive a notice if their amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 and must correct specific sections within a set time period.
If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:
  • (A) A preliminary amendment filed after the filing date of the application, the technical support staff (TSS) will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. No extensions of time are permitted. Failure to submit a timely reply will result in the application being examined without entry of the preliminary amendment. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.
  • (B) A preliminary amendment that is present on the filing date of the application, the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) will send applicant a notice (e.g., Notice to File Corrected Application Papers) which sets a time period of 2 months for reply. Extensions of time are available under 37 CFR 1.136(a). Failure to reply to the (OPAP) notice will result in abandonment of the application. Applicant’s reply is required to include either a substitute specification under 37 CFR 1.125 if the amendment is to the specification, or a complete claim listing under 37 CFR 1.121(c) if the amendment is to the claims.
  • (C) A non-final amendment including an amendment filed as a submission for an RCE, the TSS will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. Extensions of time are available under 37 CFR 1.136(a). Failure to reply to this notice will result in abandonment of the application. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.
  • (D) An after-final amendment, the amendment will be forwarded in unentered status to the examiner. In addition to providing reasons for non-entry when the amendment is not in compliance with 37 CFR 1.116 (e.g., the proposed amendment raises new issues that would require further consideration and/or search), the examiner should also indicate in the advisory action any non-compliance in the after-final amendment. The examiner should attach a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment to the advisory action. The notice provides no new time period for correcting the non-compliance. The time period for reply continues to run from the mailing of the final Office action. Applicant still needs to respond to the final Office action to avoid abandonment of the application. If the applicant wishes to file another after-final amendment, the entire corrected amendment (not only the corrected section of the amendment) must be submitted within the time period set forth in the final Office action.
  • (E) A supplemental amendment filed when there is no suspension of action under 37 CFR 1.103(a) or (c), the amendment will be forwarded to the examiner. Such a supplemental amendment is not entered as a matter of right. See 37 CFR 1.111(a)(2)(ii). The examiner will notify the applicant if the amendment is not approved for entry. The examiner may use form paragraph 7.147. See MPEP § 714.03(a).
  • (F) A supplemental amendment filed within a suspension period under 37 CFR 1.103(a) or (c) (e.g., applicant requested a suspension of action at the time of filing an RCE), the TSS will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. No extensions of time are permitted. Failure to submit a timely reply will result in the application being examined without entry of the supplemental amendment. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.
  • (G) An amendment filed in response to a Quayle action, the TSS will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. Extensions of time are available under 37 CFR 1.136(a). Failure to reply to this notice will result in abandonment of the application. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.
  • (H) An after-allowance amendment under 37 CFR 1.312, the amendment will be forwarded to the examiner. Amendments under 37 CFR 1.312 are not entered as matter of right. The examiner will notify the applicant if the amendment is not approved for entry. The examiner may attach a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment (37 CFR 1.121) to the form PTO-271, Response to Rule 312 Communication (see MPEP § 714.16(d)). The notice provides no new time period. If applicant wishes to file another after-allowance amendment under 37 CFR 1.312, the entire corrected amendment must be submitted before the payment of the issue fee.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Correcting Non-Compliant AmendmentsNotice of Non-Compliant AmendmentAmendments Adding New Matter
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-1e8bf7ecef2475e8ca90b1cc]
No New Time Period for Correcting Noncompliance
Note:
If an amendment fails to comply with the requirements, no additional time period is provided for correction; applicants must respond within the existing timeframe set by the final Office action.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The notice provides no new time period for correcting the non-compliance.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Correcting Non-Compliant AmendmentsNotice of Non-Compliant AmendmentAmendments Adding New Matter
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-f840a79be5ab31024bf102d2]
Entire Corrected After-Final Amendment Required
Note:
Applicant must submit the entire corrected after-final amendment within the time period set by the final Office action, not just the corrected section.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

If the applicant wishes to file another after-final amendment, the entire corrected amendment (not only the corrected section of the amendment) must be submitted within the time period set forth in the final Office action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Correcting Non-Compliant AmendmentsAmendments Adding New MatterAmendments to Application
Topic

Filing Date Deficiency Notice

3 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-cedea5e5e5729a0aaf243e5e]
Preliminary Amendment Filing Date Deficiency Notice
Note:
Applicant must reply within two months of receiving a notice if a preliminary amendment submitted after the filing date fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is (A) A preliminary amendment filed after the filing date of the application, the technical support staff (TSS) will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. No extensions of time are permitted. Failure to submit a timely reply will result in the application being examined without entry of the preliminary amendment. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Filing Date Deficiency NoticeFiling Date RequirementsTransmittal Content
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-579e1b02887b16f130ae5eb7]
Preliminary Amendment Filing Date Deficiency Notice
Note:
If a preliminary amendment present on the filing date does not comply with rules, OPAP will send a notice requiring a reply within 2 months.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

(B) A preliminary amendment that is present on the filing date of the application, the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) will send applicant a notice (e.g., Notice to File Corrected Application Papers) which sets a time period of 2 months for reply.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Filing Date Deficiency NoticeFiling Date RequirementsComponents Required for Filing Date
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-912cbb1950008b6ecb2c7b29]
Response Required for OPAP Notice
Note:
Applicant must reply to the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) notice within 2 months; failure results in application abandonment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Failure to reply to the (OPAP) notice will result in abandonment of the application.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Filing Date Deficiency NoticeComponents Required for Filing DateFiling Date Requirements
Topic

Access to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)

2 rules
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-9b9c2d4d0e869cf4b38ed1db]
Amendments Must Be Placed In Provisional File
Note:
Any amendments to a provisional application must be placed in the provisional application file but may not be entered.

(k) Amendments in provisional applications. Amendments in provisional applications are not usually made. If an amendment is made to a provisional application, however, it must comply with the provisions of this section. Any amendments to a provisional application shall be placed in the provisional application file but may not be entered.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)Access to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document Types
StatutoryProhibitedAlways
[mpep-714-6374f3a155a5c817f2f88961]
Amendments Must Be Recorded But Not Entered
Note:
Any changes to a provisional application must be recorded in the file but cannot be officially entered.

Amendments in provisional applications are not normally made. If an amendment is made to a provisional application, however, it must comply with the provisions of 37 CFR 1.121. Any amendments to a provisional application will be placed in the provisional application file, but may not be entered.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)Access to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document Types
Topic

Application Transmittal

2 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-19cc5cd0bb40cde8c5632eac]
Application Examined Without Preliminary Amendment If Not Timely Responded To
Note:
If a preliminary amendment submitted after the filing date is not timely replied to, the application will be examined without entering the amendment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is (A) A preliminary amendment filed after the filing date of the application, the technical support staff (TSS) will send the notice which sets a time period of two months for reply. No extensions of time are permitted. Failure to submit a timely reply will result in the application being examined without entry of the preliminary amendment. Applicant’s reply is required to include the corrected section of the amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Application TransmittalTransmittal ContentFiling Date Deficiency Notice
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-480cd64358e0897a72134835]
Timely Reply Required for Supplemental Amendment
Note:
Applicant must submit a timely reply to correct non-compliant supplemental amendments; failure results in examination without the amendment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Failure to submit a timely reply will result in the application being examined without entry of the supplemental amendment.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Application TransmittalTransmittal ContentPatent Application Content
Topic

Components Required for Filing Date

2 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-ec2ff3c50a608a738bea8078]
Extension of Time for Compliance with Filing Requirements
Note:
If an amendment fails to comply with filing requirements, the applicant can request an extension of time under 37 CFR 1.136(a) to submit a corrected section of the amendment.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Extensions of time are available under 37 CFR 1.136(a).

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Components Required for Filing DateFiling Date Deficiency NoticeFiling Date Requirements
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-92a815ed173ad59af8452e99]
Claim Listing Required for Noncompliant Amendments
Note:
Applicant must provide a complete claim listing under 37 CFR 1.121(c) if the amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Applicant’s reply is required to include either a substitute specification under 37 CFR 1.125 if the amendment is to the specification, or a complete claim listing under 37 CFR 1.121(c) if the amendment is to the claims.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Components Required for Filing DatePatent Application ContentFiling Date Deficiency Notice
Topic

Amendments After Allowance

2 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-6681810fcc4968779ae11672]
After-allowance Amendments Forwarded to Examiner
Note:
If an amendment submitted after July 30, 2003, fails compliance with 37 CFR 1.121, it will be forwarded to the examiner for review.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

(H) An after-allowance amendment under 37 CFR 1.312, the amendment will be forwarded to the examiner.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments After AllowanceIssue FeesMaintenance Fee Amounts
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-79aa63a1837390bdac3ebff2]
After-Allowance Amendments Not Entered Automatically
Note:
Applicants must submit fully compliant amendments under 37 CFR 1.312; non-compliant amendments are not entered automatically and require further action from the applicant.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

Amendments under 37 CFR 1.312 are not entered as matter of right.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments After AllowanceIssue FeesMaintenance Fee Amounts
Topic

Fee Requirements

2 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-a16d3e2d3df11c3188b70196]
Excess Claims Fees Required for Amendments
Note:
Amendments adding new claims beyond the original fee-paid claims must be accompanied by payment of excess claims fees.

Any amendments (including after-final amendments) that add new claims in excess of the number of claims previously paid for in an application must be accompanied by the payment of the required excess claims fees. Failure to pay the excess claims fees will result in non-entry of the amendment. See MPEP § 607.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Fee RequirementsMaintenance Fee Payment
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-d124a61e27a0c0a54263611c]
Excess Claims Fees Requirement
Note:
Amendments adding new claims must be accompanied by payment of excess claims fees; failure to pay results in non-entry.

Any amendments (including after-final amendments) that add new claims in excess of the number of claims previously paid for in an application must be accompanied by the payment of the required excess claims fees. Failure to pay the excess claims fees will result in non-entry of the amendment. See MPEP § 607.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Fee RequirementsMaintenance Fee Payment
Topic

Reissue and Reexamination

2 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-2ee71dfd9b46c3dd87ffacd7]
Amendments in Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
MPEP sections detail the requirements for amendments during ex parte reexamination proceedings.

For amendments in ex parte reexamination proceedings see MPEP § 2250 and § 2266. For amendments by patent owner in an inter partes reexamination proceeding, see MPEP § 2666.01 and § 2672. For amendments in reissue applications, see MPEP § 1453.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Reissue and ReexaminationConcurrent Reissue ProceedingsReissue Patent Practice
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-70d88447a494cff83189cd5a]
Amendments by Patent Owner in Inter Partes Reexamination Required
Note:
The rule outlines the requirements for amendments made by patent owners during inter partes reexamination proceedings.

For amendments in ex parte reexamination proceedings see MPEP § 2250 and § 2266. For amendments by patent owner in an inter partes reexamination proceeding, see MPEP § 2666.01 and § 2672. For amendments in reissue applications, see MPEP § 1453.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Reissue and ReexaminationConcurrent Reissue ProceedingsReissue Patent Practice
Topic

Required Views

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-2077e9660bae70896d6fd421]
Replacement Sheet for Drawing Changes Required
Note:
All changes to application drawings must be submitted on a replacement sheet labeled ‘Replacement Sheet’ and include all figures from the previous version, even if only one is amended. New sheets with additional figures must be labeled as ‘New Sheet’. All changes must be explained in detail.
(d) Drawings: One or more application drawings shall be amended in the following manner: Any changes to an application drawing must be in compliance with § 1.84, or, for a nonprovisional international design application, in compliance with §§ 1.84(c) and 1.1026, and must be submitted on a replacement sheet of drawings which shall be an attachment to the amendment document and, in the top margin, labeled “Replacement Sheet”. Any replacement sheet of drawings shall include all of the figures appearing on the immediate prior version of the sheet, even if only one figure is amended. Any new sheet of drawings containing an additional figure must be labeled in the top margin as “New Sheet.” All changes to the drawings shall be explained, in detail, in either the drawing amendment or remarks section of the amendment paper.
  • (1) A marked-up copy of any amended drawing figure, including annotations indicating the changes made, may be included. The marked-up copy must be clearly labeled as “Annotated Sheet” and must be presented in the amendment or remarks section that explains the change to the drawings.
  • (2) A marked-up copy of any amended drawing figure, including annotations indicating the changes made, must be provided when required by the examiner.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.84Required ViewsDrawing Views RequiredResponse to Refusal
Topic

Design Reproductions

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-a3205a0d040210f9076ed981]
Annotated Sheet for Drawings Changes
Note:
A marked-up copy of any amended drawing figure, including annotations indicating the changes made, must be included in the amendment document.

(d) Drawings: One or more application drawings shall be amended in the following manner: Any changes to an application drawing must be in compliance with § 1.84, or, for a nonprovisional international design application, in compliance with §§ 1.84(c) and 1.1026, and must be submitted on a replacement sheet of drawings which shall be an attachment to the amendment document and, in the top margin, labeled “Replacement Sheet”. Any replacement sheet of drawings shall include all of the figures appearing on the immediate prior version of the sheet, even if only one figure is amended. Any new sheet of drawings containing an additional figure must be labeled in the top margin as “New Sheet.” All changes to the drawings shall be explained, in detail, in either the drawing amendment or remarks section of the amendment paper. (1) A marked-up copy of any amended drawing figure, including annotations indicating the changes made, may be included. The marked-up copy must be clearly labeled as “Annotated Sheet” and must be presented in the amendment or remarks section that explains the change to the drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.84Design ReproductionsDesign Patent DrawingsRequired Views
Topic

Response to Refusal

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-2e1b700debfd7428ba2c7a41]
Amended Drawing Must Be Clearly Labeled and Explained
Note:
The amended drawing figure must be clearly labeled as 'Annotated Sheet' and explained in the amendment or remarks section.

(d) Drawings: One or more application drawings shall be amended in the following manner: Any changes to an application drawing must be in compliance with § 1.84, or, for a nonprovisional international design application, in compliance with §§ 1.84(c) and 1.1026, and must be submitted on a replacement sheet of drawings which shall be an attachment to the amendment document and, in the top margin, labeled “Replacement Sheet”. Any replacement sheet of drawings shall include all of the figures appearing on the immediate prior version of the sheet, even if only one figure is amended. Any new sheet of drawings containing an additional figure must be labeled in the top margin as “New Sheet.” All changes to the drawings shall be explained, in detail, in either the drawing amendment or remarks section of the amendment paper. (1) A marked-up copy of any amended drawing figure, including annotations indicating the changes made, may be included. The marked-up copy must be clearly labeled as “Annotated Sheet” and must be presented in the amendment or remarks section that explains the change to the drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.84Response to RefusalRequired ViewsDrawing Views Required
Topic

Mandatory Application Elements

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-ab6bd5374d1509e668208722]
Marked-Up Drawings Must Be Provided When Required
Note:
When the examiner requests, applicants must submit a marked-up copy of any amended drawing figure with annotations indicating the changes made.

(d) Drawings: One or more application drawings shall be amended in the following manner: Any changes to an application drawing must be in compliance with § 1.84, or, for a nonprovisional international design application, in compliance with §§ 1.84(c) and 1.1026, and must be submitted on a replacement sheet of drawings which shall be an attachment to the amendment document and, in the top margin, labeled “Replacement Sheet”. Any replacement sheet of drawings shall include all of the figures appearing on the immediate prior version of the sheet, even if only one figure is amended. Any new sheet of drawings containing an additional figure must be labeled in the top margin as “New Sheet.” All changes to the drawings shall be explained, in detail, in either the drawing amendment or remarks section of the amendment paper.

(2) A marked-up copy of any amended drawing figure, including annotations indicating the changes made, must be provided when required by the examiner.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.84Mandatory Application ElementsContents of ApplicationDesign Reproductions
Topic

Amendments in Reissue

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-717318ebec554cb17aa48579]
Amendments In Reissue Must Follow §1.173
Note:
Any changes to the description and claims in reissue applications must comply with section §1.173 requirements.

(i) Amendments in reissue applications. Any amendment to the description and claims in reissue applications must be made in accordance with § 1.173.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.173Amendments in ReissueReissue Patent Practice
Topic

Optional Amendment Content

1 rules
StatutoryPermittedAlways
[mpep-714-75373c92b37ec4a6d05df79d]
Applicant May Amend Before and After Office Actions
Note:
The applicant can modify the application at various stages, including before and after specific actions by the examiner.
The applicant may amend:
  • (A) before or after the first Office action and also after the second Office actions as specified in 37 CFR 1.112;
  • (B) after final rejection, if the amendment meets the criteria of 37 CFR 1.116;
  • (C) after the date of filing a notice of appeal pursuant to 37 CFR 41.31(a), if the amendment meets the criteria of 37 CFR 41.33; and
  • (D) when and as specifically required by the examiner.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Optional Amendment ContentAmendments to ApplicationFinal Office Action
Topic

Access to Drawings

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-d5dec34acececb8ea5aed37d]
Each Section Must Begin on Separate Sheet for Amendment Documents
Note:
This rule requires that each section of an amendment document (e.g., Specification, Claim, Drawing, and Remarks) must start on a new sheet to facilitate separate indexing and electronic scanning.

Each section of an amendment document (e.g., Specification Amendments, Claim Amendments, Drawing Amendments, and Remarks) must begin on a separate sheet to facilitate separate indexing and electronic scanning of each section of an amendment document for placement in a file wrapper.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Access to DrawingsAccess to Prosecution HistoryAccess to Specific Document Types
Topic

Statement Under Article 19

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-b1240de38342966310d06a55]
Status Identifier for Amended Claims Required
Note:
For claims amended in a U.S. national stage application, the status identifier (currently amended) must be used.

Each amendment document that includes a change to an existing claim, including the deletion of an existing claim, or submission of a new claim, must include a complete listing of all claims ever presented (including previously canceled and non-entered claims) in the application. After each claim number, the status identifier of the claim must be presented in a parenthetical expression, and the text of each claim under examination as well as all withdrawn claims (each with markings if any, to show current changes) must be presented. The listing will serve to replace all prior versions of the claims in the application.
(A) Status Identifiers: The current status of all of the claims in the application, including any previously canceled or withdrawn claims, must be given. Status is indicated in a parenthetical expression following the claim number by one of the following status identifiers: (original), (currently amended), (previously presented), (canceled), (withdrawn), (new), or (not entered). The status identifier (withdrawn – currently amended) is also acceptable for a withdrawn claim that is being currently amended. See paragraph (E) below for acceptable alternative status identifiers. In an amendment submitted in a U.S. national stage application, claims that were present on the international filing date or rectified pursuant to PCT Rule 91 must have the status identifier (original); claims that were amended or added under PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (previously presented); and claims that were canceled pursuant to PCT Article 19 or 34 with effect in the U.S. national stage application must have the status identifier (canceled). If the amendment submitted in the U.S. national stage application is making a change in a claim, the status identifier (currently amended) must be used for that claim.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Statement Under Article 19PCT Claims FormatNationals and Residents
Topic

Figure Requirements

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-f2dd7180aff11fdb1953af62]
Drawing Changes Must Be Approved by Examiner
Note:
Applicant must obtain examiner approval for any changes to the drawing figures, and will be notified if changes are not approved in the next Office action.

An explanation of the changes made must be presented in the “Amendments to the Drawings” or the remarks section of the amendment document. If the changes to the drawing figure(s) are not approved by the examiner, applicant will be notified in the next Office action. Applicant must amend the brief and detailed description of drawings sections of the specification if they are not consistent with the changes to the drawings. For example, when applicant files a new drawing sheet, an amendment to the specification is required to add the brief and detailed description of the new drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Figure RequirementsDrawing Amendments in Reissue
Topic

Required Amendment Content

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-51628ac310d460021235a7bb]
Specification Must Match New Drawings
Note:
Applicant must update the specification to align with any new drawings submitted, as changes to drawings require corresponding amendments in the brief and detailed description sections.

An explanation of the changes made must be presented in the “Amendments to the Drawings” or the remarks section of the amendment document. If the changes to the drawing figure(s) are not approved by the examiner, applicant will be notified in the next Office action. Applicant must amend the brief and detailed description of drawings sections of the specification if they are not consistent with the changes to the drawings. For example, when applicant files a new drawing sheet, an amendment to the specification is required to add the brief and detailed description of the new drawings.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Required Amendment ContentAmendments to ApplicationPatent Application Content
Topic

Drawings

1 rules
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-8e5d2d82132a8eb98655b480]
Drawings Must Be Submitted to Office of Data Management After Allowance
Note:
Patent drawings must be submitted without any amendments to the specification and claims after allowance, directed to the Office of Data Management.

Drawing submissions without any amendments to the specification and claims after allowance should be forwarded to the Office of Data Management.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Patent Application Content
Topic

Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment

1 rules
StatutoryRecommendedAlways
[mpep-714-ed5f2bd27bfbd043a1771cb3]
Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment Required for After-Final Amendments
Note:
Applicant must receive a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment if an after-final amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121.

If an amendment submitted on or after July 30, 2003, fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (as revised on June 30, 2003), the Office will notify applicant by a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment, Form PTOL-324, that the amendment fails to comply with the requirements of 37 CFR 1.121 and identify: (1) which section of the amendment is non-compliant (e.g., the amendments to the claims section); (2) items that are required for compliance (e.g., a claim listing in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(c)); and (3) the reasons why the section of the amendment fails to comply with 37 CFR 1.121 (e.g., the status identifiers are missing). The type of amendment will determine whether applicant will be given a period of time in which to comply with the rule and whether applicant’s reply to a notice should consist of the corrected section of the amendment (e.g., a complete claim listing in compliance of 37 CFR 1.121(c)) instead of the entire corrected amendment. If the noncompliant amendment is:

The examiner should attach a Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment to the advisory action.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Notice of Non-Compliant AmendmentAmendments Adding New MatterAmendment Compliance
Topic

Column and Line References

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-66e1820789af71d7728ed409]
Inaccurate Column and Line References for Amendments
Note:
The rule requires that amendment entry directions must be precise, noting inaccuracy in paragraph numbers or page/line designations can lead to improper amendments.

The directions for the entry of an amendment may be defective. Examples include inaccuracy in the paragraph number and/or page and line designated, or a lack of precision where the paragraph or section to which insertion of the amendment is directed occurs. If the correct place of entry is clear from the context, the amendatory paper will be properly amended in the Technology Center and notation thereof, initialed in ink by the examiner, who will assume full responsibility for the change, will be made on the margin of the amendatory paper. In the next Office action, the applicant should be informed of this alteration in the amendment and the entry of the amendment as thus amended. The applicant will also be informed of the nonentry of an amendment where defective directions and context leave doubt as to the intent of applicant.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Column and Line ReferencesAmendments Adding New MatterSpecification Amendments
Topic

Amendments to Application

1 rules
StatutoryInformativeAlways
[mpep-714-fb912b0dc801e7f766dde5b0]
Correct Place of Entry Must Be Clear for Amendments
Note:
If the correct place of entry is clear from context, amendments must be properly amended by the examiner and initialed on the margin.

The directions for the entry of an amendment may be defective. Examples include inaccuracy in the paragraph number and/or page and line designated, or a lack of precision where the paragraph or section to which insertion of the amendment is directed occurs. If the correct place of entry is clear from the context, the amendatory paper will be properly amended in the Technology Center and notation thereof, initialed in ink by the examiner, who will assume full responsibility for the change, will be made on the margin of the amendatory paper. In the next Office action, the applicant should be informed of this alteration in the amendment and the entry of the amendment as thus amended. The applicant will also be informed of the nonentry of an amendment where defective directions and context leave doubt as to the intent of applicant.

Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.121Amendments to ApplicationColumn and Line ReferencesAmendments Adding New Matter
Topic

Request by Patent Owner

1 rules
StatutoryRequiredAlways
[mpep-714-3454de535e106654f0411923]
Amendment Requirements for Ex Parte Reexamination
Note:
Patent owner must file amendments according to specific rules during different phases of ex parte reexamination.
Amendments in reissue applications must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.173. Amendments in ex parte and inter partes reexamination proceedings must be made in accordance with 37 CFR 1.530. In patent-owner-filed ex parte reexaminations, the patent owner may amend at the time of the request for ex parte reexamination in accordance with 37 CFR 1.510(e). In any ex parte reexamination proceeding, no amendment or response can be filed between the date of the request for ex parte reexamination and the order for ex parte reexamination. See 37 CFR 1.530(a). Following the order for ex parte reexamination under 37 CFR 1.525 and prior to the examination phase of ex parte reexamination proceeding, an amendment may be filed only with the patent owner’s statement under 37 CFR 1.530(b). During the examination phase of the ex parte reexamination proceeding, an amendment may be filed:
  • (A) after the first examination as specified in 37 CFR 1.112;
  • (B) after final rejection or an appeal has been taken, if the amendment meets the criteria of 37 CFR 1.116; and
  • (C) when and as specifically required by the examiner.
Jump to MPEP Source · 37 CFR 1.173Request by Patent OwnerRequest Content RequirementsResponses and Amendments

Citations

Primary topicCitation
Reissue Patent Practice
Reissue and Reexamination
35 U.S.C. § 2266
Reissue Patent Practice
Reissue and Reexamination
35 U.S.C. § 2672
Application Transmittal
Claims
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Transmittal Content
37 CFR § 1.103(a)
Claims
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
37 CFR § 1.111(a)(2)(ii)
Optional Amendment Content
Request by Patent Owner
37 CFR § 1.112
Amendments Adding New Matter
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Examination Procedures
Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment
Optional Amendment Content
Request by Patent Owner
37 CFR § 1.116
Access to Patent Application Files (MPEP 101-106)
Access to Prosecution History
Amendments Adding New Matter
Amendments After Allowance
Application Transmittal
Article 19 Amendment Scope
Claim Presentation and Numbering
Claims
Components Required for Filing Date
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Examination Procedures
Filing Date Deficiency Notice
Issue Fees
Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment
Patent Application Content
Sequence Listing Content
Transmittal Content
37 CFR § 1.121
37 CFR § 1.121(b)(1)(ii)
37 CFR § 1.121(b)(1)(iii)
37 CFR § 1.121(b)(1)(iv)
37 CFR § 1.121(b)(2)(ii)
Amendments Adding New Matter
Amendments After Allowance
Application Transmittal
Claim Presentation and Numbering
Claims
Components Required for Filing Date
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Examination Procedures
Filing Date Deficiency Notice
Issue Fees
Notice of Non-Compliant Amendment
Transmittal Content
37 CFR § 1.121(c)
37 CFR § 1.121(d)
Claims
Patent Application Content
37 CFR § 1.121(g)
Components Required for Filing Date
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Filing Date Deficiency Notice
Patent Application Content
Sequence Listing Format
37 CFR § 1.125
Patent Application Content
Sequence Listing Format
37 CFR § 1.125(b)
Claim Presentation and Numbering
Claims
37 CFR § 1.126
Claims
Components Required for Filing Date
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Filing Date Deficiency Notice
37 CFR § 1.136(a)
Sequence Listing Format37 CFR § 1.154(b)
Sequence Listing Format37 CFR § 1.163(c)
Amendments in Reissue
Reissue Patent Practice
Request by Patent Owner
37 CFR § 1.173
Amendments After Allowance
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Issue Fees
Sequence Listing Content
37 CFR § 1.312
Request by Patent Owner37 CFR § 1.510(e)
Reissue Patent Practice37 CFR § 1.52
Paper and Format Requirements37 CFR § 1.52(b)(6)
Request by Patent Owner37 CFR § 1.525
Request by Patent Owner37 CFR § 1.530
Request by Patent Owner37 CFR § 1.530(a)
Request by Patent Owner37 CFR § 1.530(b)
Sequence Listing Format37 CFR § 1.58(c)
Sequence Listing Format37 CFR § 1.58(g)
37 CFR § 1.72(b)
Patent Application Content
Sequence Listing Format
37 CFR § 1.77(b)
Sequence Listing Format37 CFR § 1.825
Sequence Listing Format37 CFR § 1.835
Design Reproductions
Mandatory Application Elements
Required Views
Response to Refusal
37 CFR § 1.84
Design Reproductions
Mandatory Application Elements
Required Views
Response to Refusal
37 CFR § 1.84(c)
Sequence Listing Format37 CFR § 1.96(c)(5)
Optional Amendment Content37 CFR § 41.31(a)
Optional Amendment Content37 CFR § 41.33
Amendments Adding New Matter
Claims
Examination Procedures
Patent Application Content
MPEP § 1302.04
Reissue Patent Practice
Reissue and Reexamination
MPEP § 1453
Reissue Patent Practice
Reissue and Reexamination
MPEP § 2250
Reissue Patent Practice
Reissue and Reexamination
MPEP § 2666.01
Fee RequirementsMPEP § 607
Sequence Listing FormatMPEP § 608.01
Claims
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
MPEP § 714.03(a)
MPEP § 714.12
Amendments After Allowance
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Issue Fees
MPEP § 714.16(d)
Claims
Correcting Non-Compliant Amendments
Form Paragraph § 7.147
Article 19 Amendment Scope
Statement Under Article 19
PCT Article 19
Article 19 Amendment Scope
Statement Under Article 19
PCT Rule 91

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