What are the exceptions to maintenance fee requirements for patents?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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. There are specific exceptions to maintenance fee requirements for certain types of patents. According to MPEP 2504 : Design patents are not subject to maintenance fees Plant patents issued from applications filed before June 8, 1995 are not subject to maintenance fees Plant patents issued from applications filed on or after June 8, 1995 are subject to maintenance fees The MPEP states: “ Design patents and patents issued from applications filed before June 8, 1995 are not subject to payment of maintenance fees. ” This distinction is important for patent holders to understand their obligations regarding maintenance fees. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Payment of Maintenance Fees for Reissued Utility Patents MPEP 2504 Requirement for Payment of Maintenance Fees on Reissue Patents and Original Utility Patent MPEP 2504 Required Maintenance Fees Required for Patents Filed After December 1980 MPEP 2504 Required Maintenance Fees for Reissued Patents and Originals Still Pending MPEP 2504 Requirement for Separate Payment of Maintenance Fee on Reissue Patents MPEP 2504 Required Maintenance Fees Not Required for Plant and Design Patents MPEP 2504 Required Reissue Patents Require Maintenance Fees Unless Original Did Not MPEP 2504 Required Maintenance Fee Required for Each Reissued Patent MPEP 2504 Application Filing Dates for Maintenance Fees MPEP 2504 Maintenance Fees Without Surcharge During Specific Periods After Grant MPEP 2504 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if a maintenance fee is not paid on time? What is the significance of the June 8, 1995 date for plant patent maintenance fees? Are maintenance fees required for all types o...