How does a general authorization for fee payments work with a USPTO deposit account?
A general authorization allows the USPTO to charge certain fees to your deposit account without requiring specific authorization for each fee. The MPEP states: A general authorization to charge all fees, or only certain fees, set forth in §§ 1.16 to 1.18 to a deposit account containing sufficient funds may be filed in an individual…
Read MoreWhat fees can be charged to a USPTO deposit account?
A USPTO deposit account can be used to pay various fees related to patent applications and services. According to the MPEP: Filing, issue, appeal, international-type search report, international application processing, international design application fees, petition, and post-issuance fees may be charged against these accounts if sufficient funds are on deposit to cover such fees. Specifically,…
Read MoreWhat happens if there are insufficient funds in my USPTO deposit account?
What happens if there are insufficient funds in my USPTO deposit account? If there are insufficient funds in your USPTO deposit account to cover a fee, the following occurs: The USPTO will treat the fee as unpaid Any associated filing may be considered incomplete You may receive a notice of insufficient funds The MPEP clearly…
Read MoreWhat is the fee for recording documents with the USPTO?
The fee for recording documents with the USPTO varies depending on the method of submission and the type of intellectual property involved. According to MPEP 302.06: For patents: If submitted electronically: $0 (as of 2019) If submitted on paper or via facsimile: Fee set in 37 CFR 1.21(h)(2) For trademarks: Fee set in 37 CFR…
Read MoreHow should fees be itemized when submitting payment to the USPTO?
The USPTO requires clear itemization of fees to ensure proper accounting. According to MPEP 509: 37 CFR 1.22(b) sets forth that fees must be itemized in such a manner that it is clear for which purpose fees are paid. The Office may return fees that are not itemized. However, the MPEP clarifies that the itemization…
Read MoreAre there any fee reductions or waivers available for USPTO patent fees?
Are there any fee reductions or waivers available for USPTO patent fees? Yes, the USPTO offers fee reductions for certain applicants. According to MPEP 509, “Certain fees may be reduced if the applicant qualifies as a small entity or micro entity.” Here’s a brief overview: Small Entity: Individuals, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations may qualify…
Read MoreDoes submitting a deficiency payment affect my micro entity status?
Yes, submitting a deficiency payment for micro entity fee errors affects your micro entity status. According to 37 CFR 1.29(k)(4): Any deficiency payment (based on a previous erroneous payment of a micro entity fee) submitted under this paragraph will be treated as a notification of a loss of entitlement to micro entity status under paragraph…
Read MoreHow is an ‘institution of higher education’ defined for micro entity status purposes?
An ‘institution of higher education’ for micro entity status purposes is defined according to Section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965. The key criteria include: Located in any U.S. state or territory Admits students with secondary education or equivalent Authorized to provide post-secondary education Offers bachelor’s degrees or at least 2-year programs toward…
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