What is a confirmation number and why is it important?
A confirmation number is a four-digit number assigned by the USPTO to each newly filed patent application. According to MPEP 503, the confirmation number serves several important purposes: It is used in combination with the application number to verify the accuracy of the application number on correspondence filed with the Office. It helps avoid misidentification…
Read MoreWhat is a filing receipt and what information does it contain?
A filing receipt is an official document issued by the USPTO that contains important information about a patent application. According to MPEP 503, the filing receipt includes: Application number Filing date Confirmation number Suggested U.S. Patent Classification class Art unit where the application is likely to be examined Continuing data (if applicable) National stage data…
Read MoreHow are application numbers assigned by the USPTO?
The USPTO assigns application numbers to patent applications immediately after mail has been opened. According to MPEP 503, application numbers consist of a series code and a serial number. The series codes are assigned based on the type of application and the time period in which it was filed. For example: 01/ – 16/ for…
Read MoreWhat is the purpose of a self-addressed postcard when filing a patent application?
A self-addressed postcard serves as a receipt and provides evidence of the items submitted to the USPTO with a patent application. According to MPEP 503, the postcard should itemize all components of the application, including: Inventor’s name(s) Title of invention Number of pages of specification, claims, and sheets of drawing Whether the inventor’s oath or…
Read MoreCan a patent application be returned or withdrawn after filing?
Once a patent application is filed and given a filing date, it generally cannot be returned or withdrawn. According to MPEP 503: “Applications which are entitled to a filing date, whether filed by regular mail, by Priority Mail Express® under 37 CFR 1.10, by hand-delivery, by the USPTO patent electronic filing system, or otherwise, will…
Read MoreHow are application numbers assigned to patent applications?
Application numbers for patent applications are assigned by the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) as follows: n n Nonprovisional applications are assigned numbers beginning with the series code ’15’ or ’16’. n Design applications are assigned numbers beginning with the series code ’29’. n Plant applications are assigned numbers beginning with the series code…
Read MoreHow does the USPTO assign application numbers to continuation or divisional applications?
How does the USPTO assign application numbers to continuation or divisional applications? The USPTO assigns application numbers to continuation or divisional applications in the same manner as new applications. According to MPEP 503: A continuation or divisional application (including a continued prosecution application) filed under 37 CFR 1.53(b) is assigned a new application number. This…
Read MoreWhat happens if there’s an error in my application number?
What happens if there’s an error in my application number? If you notice an error in your application number, it’s crucial to contact the USPTO immediately. The MPEP states, Any error in the identification of the application number will result in processing delays. (MPEP 503) To avoid such delays: Double-check the application number on your…
Read MoreWhat happens if an application number is not received within one month of filing?
If an applicant does not receive an application number within one month of filing, they should contact the Application Assistance Unit. The MPEP states: ‘If an application number is not received within one month of the filing date, applicant should contact the Application Assistance Unit at (571) 272-4000 or (888) 786-0101.’ This contact information is…
Read MoreHow are application numbers assigned for PCT applications entering the national stage?
For PCT applications entering the national stage in the United States, the application number assignment process is slightly different. The MPEP states: ‘For PCT applications entering the national stage under 35 U.S.C. 371, the USPTO assigns the national stage application a U.S. application number.’ This means that when an international PCT application transitions to the…
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