Does a change of business name affect the legal entity for patent purposes?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 4 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. According to MPEP 314 , a mere change of business name does not constitute a change in legal entity for patent purposes. The MPEP states: Although a mere change of name does not constitute a change in legal entity, it is properly a link in the chain of title. This means that while the legal entity remains the same, documenting the name change is still important for maintaining a clear chain of title for the patent. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 4 rules Collapse Name Change Is a Link in Chain of Title MPEP 314 Certificates Showing Name Change or Merger Must Be Recorded MPEP 314 Certificates for Name Changes and Mergers Required MPEP 314 Permitted Merger Documents as Chain of Title Links MPEP 314 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Why is it important to record certificates of name change or merger for patents? What types of certificates are recordable for patent ownership changes? What documents are recordable for name changes or mergers in patent ownership? Why is it important to record business name changes and mergers for patents? Does a change of business name constitute a change in legal entity for patent purposes?