How does the USPTO acknowledge receipt of a protest?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. The USPTO acknowledges receipt of a protest through a self-addressed postcard provided by the protestor. According to MPEP 1901.05 : “Where a self-addressed postcard is included with the protest, the Office will acknowledge receipt of the protest by return of the self-addressed postcard.” It’s important to note that this acknowledgment only confirms receipt and does not indicate whether the protest complies with 37 CFR 1.291 . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Protest Acknowledgment Must Not Indicate Application Status MPEP 1901.05 Prohibited Protest Receipt Confirmation via Self-Addressed Postcard MPEP 1901.05 Self-Addressed Postcard Required for Protest MPEP 1901 Protestor Cannot Receive Communications Other Than Acknowledgment MPEP 1901.05 Permitted First Protest by Real Party In Interest Not Subject to Item E MPEP 1901 Protestor Receives Only Acknowledgment Postcard MPEP 1901.05 No Office Communication After Protest Filing MPEP 1901 Permitted First Protest Not Required to Include Statement MPEP 1901 Required Office Employees Must Not Discuss Applications with Protestors MPEP 1901.05 Required Protestor Cannot Obtain Information on Unpublished Original Applications MPEP 1901.05 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How can the public access information about published patent applications? What is the difference in handling protests for original and reissue applications? What information is included in a protest acknowledgment for a published application? Can a protestor receive information about the application they&#8217;re protesting? How are protests handled for unpublished patent applications?