How can an application be made special without a fee?
According to 37 CFR 1.102(c), as cited in MPEP 708.01, an application can be made special without a fee if the basis for the petition is:
- The applicant’s age or health
- The invention will materially:
- Enhance the quality of the environment
- Contribute to the development or conservation of energy resources
- Contribute to countering terrorism
The regulation states: A petition to make an application special may be filed without a fee if the basis for the petition is: (1) The applicant’s age or health; or (2) That the invention will materially: (i) Enhance the quality of the environment; (ii) Contribute to the development or conservation of energy resources; or (iii) Contribute to countering terrorism.
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