What are the recommended methods for checking application status?

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.

The USPTO recommends several methods for checking application status:

• Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR) system: This is the primary method for checking application status online. PAIR provides real-time access to the status of patent applications.
• USPTO Call Center: For those who cannot access the Internet, the USPTO Call Center can provide status information.
• Written requests: These should only be submitted if the application cannot be accessed through PAIR and the USPTO Call Center cannot provide the necessary information.

According to MPEP 203.08, ‘Applicants and their attorneys or agents are encouraged to use the PAIR system for checking patent application status.’