Patent Law FAQ
This FAQ answers all your questions about patent law, patent procedure, and the patent examination process.
According to MPEP 2515, anyone can pay maintenance fees for a patent. Specifically, the section states:
“The patentee may pay maintenance fees and any necessary surcharges or any person or organization may pay maintenance fees and any necessary surcharges on behalf of the patentee.“
This means that the patent owner, a legal representative, or even a third party can submit the payment. No special authorization is required for someone other than the patentee to pay the fees.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2500 – Maintenance Fees,
MPEP 2515 – Information Required For Submission Of Maintenance Fee Payment,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure