How can the public access information about published patent applications?

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.

Once a patent application is published, its contents become accessible to the public. The MPEP 1901.05 provides information on how to access these files:

“After an application is published pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 122(b), the application file contents become available to the public through the Office’s public application image file wrapper via the Office’s website.”

Additionally, the public can request a copy of the file content by following these steps:

• File a written request under 37 CFR 1.14(a)(1)(i)
• Pay the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.19(b)

This process ensures transparency while still maintaining confidentiality for unpublished applications.