How does the USPTO handle refunds for fees paid by credit card?
The USPTO has specific procedures for handling refunds of fees paid by credit card. According to MPEP 509:
35 U.S.C. 42(d) and 37 CFR 1.26 (which concern refund of patent and trademark fees) also apply to requests for refund of fees paid by credit card. Any refund of a fee paid by credit card will be by a credit to the credit card account to which the fee was charged. See 37 CFR 1.26(a).
Key points about USPTO refunds for credit card payments:
- Refunds are processed as credits to the original credit card account used for payment.
- The same laws and regulations governing refunds of patent and trademark fees apply to credit card payments.
- For information on which fees are refundable, refer to MPEP ยง 607.02 regarding returnability of fees.
It’s important to note that refund requests are subject to specific criteria and time limitations, so applicants should review the relevant regulations when seeking a refund.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 500 - Receipt and Handling of Mail and Papers,
MPEP 509 - Payment of Fees,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure