What are the requirements for requesting voluntary publication?
To request voluntary publication of a patent application filed before November 29, 2000, applicants must meet specific requirements as outlined in MPEP 1133:
- The application must be pending
- A copy of the application must be submitted in compliance with the Office Electronic Filing System (EFS) requirements
- The publication fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.18(d) must be paid
- The processing fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(i) must be paid
The MPEP states: “If the applicant submits a request that does not meet the EFS requirements, the request will be dismissed.” It’s crucial to ensure all requirements are met to avoid dismissal of the request.
To learn more: