How can I access published patent applications?

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. Published patent applications are accessible electronically through various means: On the USPTO website Via Patent Center for status information Through Image File Wrapper (IFW) system for scanned applications As stated in the MPEP, “ Published applications that have been scanned into the Image File Wrapper (IFW) system may be available electronically via Patent Center. See 37 CFR 1.14(b) . ” However, it’s important to note that “ if a published patent application is pending and it is not maintained in the IFW system, the paper application file itself will not be available to the public for inspection. “ Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Published Patent Application Not Maintained in Patent Center MPEP 1128 Published Applications Available on USPTO Website MPEP 103 Patent Application Available Through Patent Center If Maintained in IFW System MPEP 103 Access to Published Patent Application Files MPEP 1128 Permitted Access to Abandoned Published Application Files Is Allowed MPEP 103 Required Published Abandoned Application File Available to Public MPEP 1128 Permitted Published Abandoned Application File Available to Public MPEP 103 Permitted Status Info for Published Applications MPEP 1128 Permitted Status Information for Published Applications Required MPEP 1128 Public Access to Published Applications MPEP 1128 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a &#8216;file wrapper&#8217;? What information is available about reexamination proceedings? How can I petition for access to a confidential patent application? What patent application files are open to public inspection? What is the Image File Wrapper (IFW) system and how does it affect public acce...