How are electronically filed patent applications date-stamped by the USPTO?

Question

Accepted Answer

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. Electronically filed patent applications receive special treatment for date-stamping at the USPTO. According to MPEP 505 , Correspondence submitted to the Office by way of the Office electronic filing system will be accorded a receipt date, which is the date the correspondence is received at the correspondence address for the Office set forth in § 1.1 when it was officially submitted. Key points about electronic filing date-stamping: The receipt date is based on the time in Alexandria, VA (USPTO’s location) Electronic submissions can receive a date stamp on any day, including weekends and holidays The electronic filing system (EFS-Web) must be used in accordance with USPTO requirements For more details on electronic filing, refer to MPEP § 502.05 . For more information on EFS-Web, visit: EFS-Web . For more information on electronic filing, visit: electronic filing . For more information on USPTO, visit: USPTO . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Electronic Filing System Requirements for Correspondence MPEP 505 Permitted Office Date Stamp Establishes Filing Date for Complete Applications MPEP 505 Date of Deposit Stamped on Patent Applications MPEP 505 Correspondence Receipt Date Regardless of Day MPEP 505 Receipt Date for Electronic Filings Is Eastern Time Regardless of Holidays MPEP 502 Permitted Receipt Date for Electronic Filings Is Eastern Time Regardless of Holidays MPEP 505 Permitted Office Date Stamp Required for Receipt of Correspondence MPEP 505 Office Date Stamp Requirement for Returned Papers MPEP 502 Recommended Identification of Previously Filed Patent Application MPEP 502 Required Petition for Filing Date After Missing Receipt Evidence ...