Can a corporation file a patent application under pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.47(b)?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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. Yes, a corporation can file a patent application under pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.47(b). The MPEP explicitly states that “Where a corporation is the pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.47(b) applicant, an officer (President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, or Chief Executive Officer) thereof should normally sign the necessary oath or declaration.” Additionally, “A corporation may authorize any person, including an attorney or agent registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, to sign the application oath or declaration on its behalf.” However, proper authorization or proof of authority may be required in such cases. Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can an inventor authorize someone else to sign the application oath or declaration on their behalf? What happens to a patent application if an inventor dies after filing but before issuance? What happens if an inventor becomes available after a 37 CFR 1.47(a) petition is granted? What happens if the last-known address of an unavailable inventor is invalid? How does the process differ for international patent applications filed by non-inventor applicants?