How can I file a petition for delayed payment of maintenance fees?
To file a petition for delayed payment of maintenance fees, follow these steps according to MPEP 2590:
- Use form PTO/SB/66, available on the USPTO forms website.
- Mark the front page of the communication “Attention: Office of Petitions”.
- Address the petition to:
Mail Stop Petition
Commissioner for Patents
P.O. Box 1450
Alexandria, Virginia 22313-1450 - Include the required maintenance fee, petition fee, and statement of unintentional delay.
- Ensure the petition is signed in compliance with 37 CFR 1.33(b).
Note that the EFS-Web version of the SB/66 form for auto-processing was retired on February 1, 2018. Petitions are processed by the Office of Petitions.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2500 - Maintenance Fees,
MPEP 2590 - Acceptance Of Delayed Payment Of Maintenance Fee In Expired Patent To Reinstate Patent,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure