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