What are the consequences of bounced checks or insufficient funds for USPTO fee payments?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. Submitting a check that bounces or having insufficient funds for USPTO fee payments can have serious consequences. The MPEP 509 states: ‘If any fee is paid by a check which is uncollectible or is returned unpaid, or if any payment is made in an amount less than the required amount, the fee payment shall be regarded as incomplete and the processing of the application or other filing shall be held in abeyance until the full fee payment is made.’ Consequences may include: Suspension of application processing Potential loss of filing date Additional fees or penalties Possible disciplinary action for repeated occurrences To avoid these issues, ensure sufficient funds are available and consider using more reliable payment methods like electronic funds transfer or credit cards. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Credit Card Payments Allowed for USPTO Fees Except Deposit Replenishment MPEP 509 Required Credit Card Fee Payment Requires Specific Information MPEP 509 Required Payment of Fees by Credit Card Permitted MPEP 509 Payment of Fees by Credit Card Is Required MPEP 509 Credit Card Number on Non-Official Forms Not Secure MPEP 509 Provisional Application Fee Payment Order MPEP 509 Credit Card Fee Must Be In Writing MPEP 509 Credit Card Payment Not Required via USPTO Electronic Filing System MPEP 509 Required Credit Card Payment Form for Fees MPEP 509 Permitted Credit Card Payment Form Required for Manual Payments MPEP 509 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Are there any fee reductions or waivers available for USPTO patent fees? What are the accepted methods of payment for USPTO fees? How should fees be itemized when submitting payment to the U...