How long does micro entity status last?

Micro entity status, once properly established, generally remains in effect until:

• A fee is paid in the small entity or undiscounted amount
• A notification of loss of entitlement to micro entity status is filed
• The issue fee or a maintenance fee is due

However, the applicant has a continued obligation to verify eligibility for micro entity status each time a fee is paid. As stated in 37 CFR 1.29(g): ‘a fee may be paid in the micro entity amount only if status as a micro entity as defined in paragraph (a) or (d) of this section is appropriate on the date the fee is being paid.’