Are handwritten patent applications accepted by the USPTO?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. While it is strongly recommended to submit typed or printed applications , the USPTO does accept handwritten patent applications under certain conditions: The handwriting must be legible and in permanent dark ink or its equivalent . The text must be clearly readable and suitable for reproduction. All other formatting requirements (margins, spacing, etc.) must still be followed. As stated in MPEP 501 : All papers that are to become a part of the permanent records of the United States Patent and Trademark Office should be legibly written either by a typewriter or mechanical printer in permanent dark ink or its equivalent in portrait orientation on flexible, strong, smooth, non-shiny, durable, and white paper. While handwritten applications are technically accepted, it’s important to note that typed or printed applications are preferred for clarity and ease of processing. Handwritten applications may face additional scrutiny and potential delays in processing due to legibility concerns. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Addresses for Patent and Trademark Correspondence Must Be Specified MPEP 501 Recommended Disclosure of Assistance in Patent Application Preparation Required MPEP 501 Addresses Required for Trademark Correspondence with USPTO MPEP 501 Mark Patent Term Extension Applications with Mail Stop Hatch-Waxman PTE MPEP 501 Recommended Correspondence to Office of the Solicitor Must Be Addressed Specifically MPEP 501 Required Patent Papers Must Be Hand-Delivered to Alexandria, VA Office MPEP 501 Permitted Payment to Replenish Deposit Account Required MPEP 501 Permitted Requests for Certified Copies of Trademark Documents Must Be Addressed to Speci...