Is there a fee for submitting prior art citations or written statements to the USPTO?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29
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, there is no fee required for submitting prior art citations or written statements to the USPTO for placement in patent files. As stated in MPEP 2202:
“Submission may be made without payment of a fee.“
This applies to both prior art citations and written statements concerning claim scope. These submissions can be made independently of any reexamination request.
Topics:
MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents
MPEP 2202 - Citation Of Prior Art And Written Statements
Patent Law
Patent Procedure