What happens if a patent filing deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday?

If a patent filing deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the action can be taken or the fee paid on the next business day. According to MPEP 710.05:

“When the day, or the last day, for taking any action or paying any fee in the United States Patent and Trademark Office falls on Saturday, Sunday, or a Federal holiday within the District of Columbia the action may be taken, or the fee paid, on the next succeeding secular or business day.”

This extension is provided by 35 U.S.C. 21(b) and 37 CFR 1.7(a).

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Tags: USPTO procedures