How are patented and abandoned patent application files stored and accessed?

Patented and abandoned patent application files are stored and accessed differently based on their age and format:

• Recently patented and abandoned paper files are stored at the Files Repository.
• Older files are housed in off-site warehouses.
• Image File Wrapper (IFW) applications are stored electronically.

According to MPEP 711.04(b): “Image File Wrapper (IFW) applications are stored electronically and do not have a paper file wrapper to be stored other than certain artifact material. The electronic file is the official record of the application.”

To learn more:

• Patent Files
• File Storage
• Image File Wrapper
• Electronic Storage
• Patent Examination