How can an applicant extend a shortened statutory period for reply?

An applicant can extend a shortened statutory period for reply under certain conditions. The MPEP states: Extensions of the statutory period under 35 U.S.C. 133 may be obtained under 37 CFR 1.136, provided the extension does not go beyond the 6-month statutory period from the date of the Office action (35 U.S.C. 133).

To extend a shortened statutory period:

• File a request for extension of time
• Pay the appropriate fee
• Ensure the extension request is filed within the original or previously extended period
• Verify that the total extension does not exceed 6 months from the original Office action date

It’s crucial to note that extensions cannot be obtained after the maximum 6-month period has expired. Applicants should carefully track deadlines and request extensions well before the expiration of the statutory period to avoid abandonment of the application.

To learn more:

• statutory period
• time extension
• patent application
• USPTO
• patent examination