How can I claim entitlement to small entity status for maintenance fees?

To claim small entity status for maintenance fees, you must file a written assertion of entitlement to small entity status. According to MPEP 2550:

“In order to establish small entity status for the purpose of paying a maintenance fee, a written assertion of entitlement to small entity status must be filed prior to or with the maintenance fee paid as a small entity.”

The assertion must be filed before or with the maintenance fee payment. For more details on qualifying as a small entity and making an assertion, refer to MPEP § 509.02 and MPEP § 509.03.

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Topics: MPEP 2500 - Maintenance Fees, MPEP 2550 - Entity Status Discounts, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: Entity Status Assertion, Maintenance Fees, patent fees, Small Entity Status