Are the forms mentioned in MPEP 2595 mandatory for maintenance fee submissions?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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 the forms mentioned in MPEP 2595 are recommended, they are not strictly mandatory. The MPEP uses the word “suggested” when referring to these forms: “The following forms are suggested when submitting a maintenance fee or establishing a fee address for maintenance fee purposes.” However, using these official forms is highly recommended as they ensure that all necessary information is provided in the correct format, which can help avoid processing delays or potential errors in your maintenance fee submission or fee address establishment. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Petition for Unintentionally Delayed Maintenance Fee Payment in Expired Patent MPEP 2595 Permitted Request for Customer Number Permitted MPEP 2595 Permitted Unintentional Delayed Maintenance Fee Acceptable to Reinstate Patent MPEP 2590 Permitted Petition for Unintentionally Delayed Maintenance Fee MPEP 2590 Unintentional Delay in Maintenance Fee Payment MPEP 2590 Permitted Petition for Unintentional Delay of Maintenance Fee Payment MPEP 2590 Required Separate Fees for Each Unpaid Maintenance Fee MPEP 2590 Required Late Payment of Maintenance Fee Permitted After Grace Period If Unintentional MPEP 2590 Permitted Petition for Unintentional Maintenance Fee Delay Must Include Fees and Statement MPEP 2590 Required Petition for Unintentional Maintenance Fee Delay MPEP 2590 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a fee address and how do I establish one for maintenance fee purposes? What form should I use to petition for acceptance of a late maintenance fee payment? What forms are recommended for submitting maintenance fees? How can I request a customer number for patent-related pur...