How can I file a delayed benefit claim for a provisional application?
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.
Filing a delayed benefit claim for a provisional application follows a similar process to other delayed benefit claims. According to MPEP 211.04:
“If the reference required by 35 U.S.C. 119(e) and 37 CFR 1.78 is not submitted within the required time period, a petition for an unintentionally delayed claim may be filed.”
The petition must include:
- The reference to the prior provisional application
- A petition fee
- A statement that the entire delay was unintentional
It’s important to note that as of December 18, 2013, the amendment containing the specific reference to the earlier filed provisional application no longer needs to be submitted during the pendency of the application.