How are returned assignment documents handled by the USPTO?

The USPTO handles returned assignment documents as follows:

• Documents are stamped with the original receipt date.
• A letter accompanies returned documents explaining the correction needed.
• If corrected and resubmitted within the specified time, the original receipt date is considered the recording date.
• Resubmissions can use the certification procedure under 37 CFR 1.8 or the ‘Priority Mail Express®’ procedure under 37 CFR 1.10.
• If not corrected and resubmitted in time, the new receipt date becomes the recording date.

The MPEP states: The certification procedure under 37 CFR 1.8 or the ‘Priority Mail Express®’ procedure under 37 CFR 1.10 may be used for resubmissions of returned papers to obtain the benefit of the date of deposit in the United States Postal Service to establish that the papers were returned within the time period specified.

For more information on assignment recording, visit: assignment recording.

For more information on document correction, visit: document correction.

For more information on USPTO procedures, visit: USPTO procedures.