What constitutes a complete reply to a Requirement for Information?
A complete reply to a Requirement for Information under 37 CFR 1.105 must address each enumerated requirement. The MPEP states, A complete reply to a 37 CFR 1.105 requirement is a reply to each enumerated requirement for information giving either the information required or a statement that the information required to be submitted is unknown and/or is not readily available to the party or parties from which it was requested.
Importantly, you don’t need to distinguish between unknown information and information that’s not readily available. The MPEP clarifies, There is no need for applicants to distinguish between whether the required information is unknown or is not readily available.
However, you must make a good faith attempt to obtain the information and conduct a reasonable inquiry.
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