What happens if an IDS is filed after the issue fee has been paid?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09
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.
If an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS) is filed after the issue fee has been paid, it will not be considered by the examiner. According to MPEP 609.02:
‘Any IDS filed after the issue fee has been paid will not be considered by the examiner. In this situation, the application will be printed without consideration of the IDS.’
If an applicant wants the information in the IDS to be considered, they have two options:
- File a request for continued examination (RCE) along with the IDS
- Withdraw the application from issue and file a request for continued examination (RCE) with the IDS
It’s important to note that these actions must be taken before the patent issues to ensure consideration of the IDS.
Topics:
Patent Law
Patent Procedure