How does the USPTO handle replies in Accelerated Examination 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.

The USPTO has specific procedures for handling replies in Accelerated Examination applications:

• Replies must be filed electronically via EFS-Web for expeditious processing
• Any amendment not encompassed by the original accelerated examination support document requires an updated support document
• Non-responsive replies may be given a shortened statutory period of two months to supply omissions or corrections
• Extensions of time may be granted but will result in the application being taken out of the accelerated examination program

The MPEP states: “Any reply or other papers must be filed electronically via EFS-Web so that the papers will be expeditiously processed and considered. If the papers are not filed electronically via EFS-Web, the final disposition of the application may occur later than twelve months from the filing of the application.”