Is a daytime telephone number required for patent applications filed before September 16, 2012?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10

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.

While not strictly required, the USPTO recommends providing a daytime telephone number for patent applications filed before September 16, 2012. According to MPEP 403.01(b):

Pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.33(a) requests the submission of a daytime telephone number of the party to whom correspondence is to be addressed. While business is to be conducted on the written record (37 CFR 1.2), a daytime telephone number would be useful in initiating contact that could later be reduced to writing.

Key points about the daytime telephone number:

  • It is not mandatory but recommended
  • It can be changed by any party who can change the correspondence address
  • It facilitates initial contact that can later be documented in writing
Tags: Daytime Telephone Number, pre-AIA applications, USPTO communication