What are the two types of signatures accepted for patent correspondence?
The USPTO accepts two types of signatures for patent correspondence:
- Handwritten signature: An original signature personally signed in permanent dark ink or its equivalent.
- S-signature: A signature inserted between forward slash marks, which can include electronic or mechanical signatures.
As stated in 37 CFR 1.4(d): “Correspondence filed in the Office, which requires a person’s signature, may be filed with one of two types of signatures: (A) handwritten signature; and (B) ‘S-signature.'”
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 500 - Receipt and Handling of Mail and Papers,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure