Can multiple correspondence addresses be used for a single patent application filed after September 16, 2012?

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’s possible to include multiple correspondence addresses for a single patent application filed after September 16, 2012, the USPTO will ultimately select only one for official use. Here’s what you need to know:

• Multiple addresses can be provided in the application
• The USPTO will choose one address as the official correspondence address
• If a Customer Number is provided, it may be given preference
• Only the selected address will receive official communications

The MPEP 403.01(a) states:

Pursuant to 37 CFR 1.33(a), if an applicant includes more than one correspondence address (37 CFR 1.33(a) ) in a patent application, the Office will select one of the specified addresses for use as the correspondence address and, if given, may select the address associated with a Customer Number over a typed correspondence address.

To ensure clear communication, it’s best to designate a single, preferred correspondence address for your application. If you need to change this address later, you can file a request with the USPTO.