How can I obtain copies of patent assignment records?

Obtaining copies of patent assignment records depends on when the assignment was recorded. According to MPEP 301.01:

1. For assignments recorded on or after May 1, 1957:
   • Copies can be obtained from the USPTO upon request and payment of the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.19.
   • The MPEP states: “Requests for abstracts of title for assignments of patents recorded after May 1, 1957, are provided by the Certification Division upon request and payment of fee required in 37 CFR 1.19.”
2. For assignments recorded before May 1, 1957:
   • These records are maintained by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).
   • Requests should be directed to NARA directly.
   • The MPEP advises: “Requests for copies of pre-1957 records for patents should be directed to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Since these records are maintained by NARA, it is more expeditious to request copies directly from NARA, rather than from the Office, which would then have to route the requests to NARA.”

When requesting copies, be sure to identify the reel and frame number where the assignment is recorded to avoid extra charges for search time.

To learn more:

• patent assignment copies
• USPTO records
• NARA
• historical patents