Can I pay patent maintenance fees with a credit card?
Yes, you can pay patent maintenance fees with a credit card. According to MPEP 2522:
“The maintenance fee can be charged to a credit card as set forth in 37 CFR 1.23(b), but credit for the payment is subject to actual receipt of the fee by the Office.“
When using a credit card for payment, it’s recommended to use the Credit Card Payment Form (PTO-2038) unless submitting payment over the internet. It’s important to note that the USPTO will not be liable if credit card information becomes public knowledge when provided on forms other than the official PTO-2038.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2500 - Maintenance Fees,
MPEP 2522 - Methods Of Payment,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure