What happens if an amendment is unsigned or improperly signed?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. According to MPEP 714.01(a) , an unsigned or improperly signed amendment will not be entered into the application. The MPEP states: An unsigned amendment or one not properly signed by a person having authority to prosecute the application is not entered. If an unsigned or improperly signed amendment is received, the examiner will: List the amendment in the contents of the application file, but not enter it Notify the applicant of the status of the application Advise the applicant to furnish a duplicate amendment properly signed or to ratify the amendment already filed In applications not under final rejection, applicants are typically given a two-month time period to ratify the previously filed amendment under 37 CFR 1.135(c). Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Two-Month Time Period for Ratifying Amendment MPEP 714.01(a) Recommended Examiner Will Notify Applicant of Unsigned Amendment Status MPEP 714.01(a) Unsigned Amendment Not Entered MPEP 714.01(a) Amendments Must Be Recorded But Not Entered MPEP 714 Prohibited Supplemental Amendment Not Entered As Right MPEP 714 Manner of Making Amendments in Application MPEP 714 Examiner Will Notify Applicant If After-allowance Amendment Is Not Approved For Entry MPEP 714 Examiner Will Notify Applicant If Amendment Not Approved MPEP 714 Notification of Unsigned Amendments Required MPEP 714.01(a) Permitted Amendments to Specification Must Follow Specific Methods MPEP 714 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the significance of proper signatures in patent applications? What is the time frame for ratifying an unsigned or improperly signed amendment? What happens if an amendment is unsigned or improp...