How often do I need to certify micro entity status?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. According to MPEP 509.04(d) , a certification of entitlement to micro entity status needs to be filed only once in an application or patent. The MPEP states: ‘A certification of entitlement to micro entity status need only be filed once in an application or patent. Micro entity status, once established, remains in effect until changed pursuant to paragraph (i) of this section.’ However, it’s important to note that while recertification isn’t required for each fee payment, the applicant must still be entitled to micro entity status at the time of each fee payment made at the micro entity rate. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Applicant Must Reconfirm Micro Entity Status Each Year MPEP 509.04(d) Required Certification Not Required for Each Fee Payment Once Established MPEP 509.04(d) Required Micro Entity Status Must Be Maintained for Fee Payments MPEP 509.04(d) Required Micro Entity Must Still Obtain Majority Income from Higher Education Institution MPEP 509.04(d) Required Notify Loss of Micro Entity Status MPEP 509.04(d) Required Micro Entity Gross Income Requirement Must Be Revisited Annually MPEP 509.04(d) Required Assignment of Micro Entity Rights Not Requiring New Certification MPEP 509.04(d) Required Credit Card Fee Payment Requires Specific Information MPEP 509 Required Provisional Application Fee Payment Order MPEP 509 Credit Card Payment Form Required for Manual Payments MPEP 509 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does employment at an institution of higher education affect micro entity status? What happens if I no longer qualify for micro entity status? How is micro entity status determined for gross income basis? How is mi...