Can amendments be made to a provisional application after filing?

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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. Generally, amendments to a provisional application are not permitted after the filing date, except for those required to comply with applicable regulations. The MPEP clearly states: Amendments, other than those required to make the provisional application comply with applicable regulations, are not permitted after the filing date of the provisional application. ( MPEP 601.01(b) ) This restriction helps maintain the integrity of the provisional application as a snapshot of the invention at the time of filing. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Amendments Not Permitted After Filing Date MPEP 601.01(b) Required Provisional Application Filing Date Parallel to Nonprovisional MPEP 601.01(b) Fee May Be Submitted After Filing Date With Surcharge MPEP 601 Permitted Components of a Provisional Application MPEP 601 Filing Fee Required for Provisional Application MPEP 601 Required Provisional Application Cannot Claim Priority or Earlier Filing Date MPEP 601 Required Specification Required for Filing Date MPEP 601 Required Provisional Application Does Not Entitle Priority MPEP 601 Required Cover Sheet Required for Provisional Application Processing MPEP 601 Specification Required for Filing Date of Provisional Application MPEP 601.01(b) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can a provisional application be filed without an oath or declaration? What happens if a provisional application is filed without claims? What happens if the filing fee for a provisional application is not paid? What happens if a provisional application is missing required elements? What happens if a provisional application is filed without a complete cover sheet?