What are the certification requirements for signatures in USPTO correspondence?

The USPTO has specific certification requirements for signatures in correspondence. According to MPEP 501, which cites 37 CFR 1.4(d)(4):

The person inserting a signature under paragraph (d)(2) or (d)(3) of this section in a document submitted to the Office certifies that the inserted signature appearing in the document is his or her own signature. A person submitting a document signed by another under paragraph (d)(2) or (d)(3) of this section is obligated to have a reasonable basis to believe that the person whose signature is present on the document was actually inserted by that person, and should retain evidence of authenticity of the signature.

Key points about signature certifications:

• The person inserting an S-signature certifies it as their own.
• When submitting a document signed by another, you must have a reasonable belief that the signature is authentic.
• Evidence of signature authenticity should be retained.
• Violations of certification rules may result in sanctions.

These requirements apply to both handwritten and S-signatures. They ensure the integrity and authenticity of documents submitted to the USPTO.

For more information on USPTO correspondence, visit: USPTO correspondence.