How are assignments handled when they are not recorded?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 2 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. When assignments are not recorded, they are still processed by the Assignment Division. According to the MPEP 317 : “All assignments not recorded will be appropriately marked for return to the sender where a correspondence address is available.” This means that even if an assignment is not officially recorded, the Assignment Division will still handle the document and return it to the sender if possible. It’s important to note that while unrecorded assignments are processed, they do not have the same legal standing as recorded assignments. For more information on Assignment Division, visit: Assignment Division . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 2 rules Collapse Nonrecordable Documents Returned with Explanation MPEP 317 Sender Can Petition for Unusual Case Recordation MPEP 317 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the recording date for a document at the USPTO? How are documents with other deficiencies handled by the USPTO? Can the original filing date be preserved for corrected documents? What happens if corrected documents are not resubmitted within the specified period? What happens to documents submitted for recording at the USPTO Assignment Division?