How is the receipt date determined for faxed assignment documents at the USPTO?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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 determination of the receipt date for faxed assignment documents at the USPTO is crucial for establishing priority and effective dates. According to MPEP 302.09 : “The date of receipt accorded to an assignment document sent to the Office by facsimile transmission is the date the complete transmission is received in the Office.” This means that: The receipt date is when the entire document has been successfully transmitted and received by the USPTO. Partial transmissions or incomplete faxes will not establish a receipt date. The time zone of the USPTO (Eastern Time) is used for determining the date. If a transmission is completed after business hours, the next business day may be considered the receipt date. It’s important to ensure that the fax transmission is complete and to keep confirmation records of the transmission for your files. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Date of Receipt for Facsimiles Is Defined MPEP 302.09 Facsimile Transmission Receipt Date Determined by Next Business Day MPEP 502.01 Assignment Documents May Be Submitted via Fax MPEP 302.09 Timely Resubmission Provides Initial Receipt Date MPEP 302.09 Recording of Assignment Documents Required MPEP 302 Required Facsimile Assignment Documents Must Include Specific Elements MPEP 302.09 Required Credit Card for Facsimile Assignment Documents MPEP 302.09 Required Facsimile Transmission Receipt Date Determination MPEP 502.01 Assignments Can Be Submitted Via Fax MPEP 302.09 Permitted Continued Prosecution Application Receipt Date Determined by Office Facsimile Unit MPEP 502.01 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if a faxed assignment document is not recordable ...