What documentation is required for rejoined claims?

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.

When claims are rejoined and allowed in a patent application, specific documentation is required to ensure proper processing. The MPEP 1302.04(h) states:

“Any previously withdrawn claims that are being rejoined and allowed must be listed in the index of claims and on the Notice of Allowability to avoid a printer query.”

This means that patent examiners must ensure that:

• Rejoined claims are included in the index of claims
• Rejoined claims are listed on the Notice of Allowability

These steps are crucial to prevent any confusion or delays during the printing and issuance of the patent.