What happens if a patent owner fails to elect a single product for extension when multiple applications are filed?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29

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 a single applicant files multiple applications for patent term extension based on different products’ regulatory review periods, the USPTO provides a period (usually one month) for the patent owner to elect the product for which extension is desired. According to MPEP 2761:

“The final determination will indicate that if the patent owner fails to elect a single product within the set time period, the Office will issue a certificate of extension for the patent for a specified one of the products.”

This ensures that a decision is made even if the patent owner fails to make an election, preventing indefinite delays in the extension process.

Topics: Adjustments And Extensions MPEP 2700 - Patent Terms MPEP 2761 - Multiple Applications For Extension Of Term Of The Same Patent Or Of Different Patents For The Same Regulatory Review Period For A Product Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Patent Eligibility, Pte Calculation