What are the requirements for requesting a suspension of action?

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.

To request a suspension of action under 37 CFR 1.103(a), an applicant must meet specific requirements. The MPEP states that a petition for suspension of action must:

• Be accompanied by the petition fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(g);
• Specify a period of suspension not exceeding 6 months; and
• Present good and sufficient reasons why the suspension is necessary.

It’s important to note that “The showing of good and sufficient cause should specifically explain what factors directly impact the applicant’s ability to presently prosecute the application for which the suspension of action has been requested.” General circumstances without specific explanation may not be considered sufficient.