What are the options for submitting maintenance fee payments to the USPTO?
The USPTO offers several options for submitting maintenance fee payments: Over the Internet: Payments can be made through the Patent Maintenance Fees Storefront using electronic funds transfer (EFT), credit card, or deposit account. By Mail: Payments can be mailed to the USPTO’s designated address. By Facsimile: Fax submissions are accepted when charged to a deposit…
Read MoreWhat happens if the fee paid to the USPTO is insufficient?
If an applicant pays an insufficient fee to the USPTO, the Office will notify the applicant and provide an opportunity to submit the remaining balance. According to MPEP 509: If the fee paid by the applicant is insufficient, either because the notice specified an incorrect dollar amount for the fee or because of a fee…
Read MoreHow should I submit patent maintenance fee payments?
Patent maintenance fee payments can be submitted in two ways: Electronically: This is the preferred method. Payments can be made through the USPTO’s Patent Maintenance Fees Storefront. By mail: If not submitted electronically, maintenance fee payments and related correspondence should be addressed to: Mail Stop Maintenance FeeDirector of the United States Patent and Trademark OfficeP.O.…
Read MoreWhat is the Credit Card Payment Form (PTO-2038) and when should it be used?
The Credit Card Payment Form (PTO-2038) is a specific form provided by the USPTO for making credit card payments for patent and trademark process fees. According to MPEP 509: Credit Card Payment Form (PTO-2038) should be used when paying a patent process or trademark process fee (or the fee for an information product) by credit…
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…
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