Is it necessary to physically surrender the original patent when filing a reissue application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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.

No, it is no longer required to physically surrender the original patent when filing a reissue application. According to MPEP 1410:

It is no longer required that the reissue applicant physically surrender the original patent, see MPEP § 1416.

This change simplifies the reissue application process, as applicants are not required to locate and submit the original patent document. However, it’s important to note that other requirements, such as submitting a copy of the printed patent and complying with reissue-specific rules, still apply.

Tags: mpep 1410, original patent surrender, patent law, reissue application