What happens if I fail to notify the USPTO about loss of micro entity status?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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. Failing to notify the USPTO about the loss of micro entity status can have serious consequences. The MPEP warns: “Fraudulent assertion of micro entity status is considered a fraud practiced or attempted on the Office.” ( MPEP 509.04(f) ) Consequences may include: Invalidation of the patent application or granted patent Disciplinary action against registered practitioners Criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. 1001 It’s crucial to promptly notify the USPTO if you lose eligibility for micro entity status to avoid these severe consequences. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Total Deficiency for Micro Entity Fees Must Be Paid MPEP 509.04(f) Correction of Micro Entity Status Errors Allowed MPEP 509.04(f) Correction of Micro Entity Status Errors MPEP 509.04(f) Required Deficiency Payment Notifies Loss of Micro Entity Status MPEP 509.04(f) Deficiency Payment for Single Application or Patent MPEP 509.04(f) Required Deficiency Owed for Erroneous Micro Entity Fees Must Be Paid MPEP 509.04(f) Required Deficiency for Erroneous Micro Entity Fees Must Be Paid MPEP 509.04(f) Small Entity Fee Correction Allowed If Established in Good Faith MPEP 509.04(f) Deficiency Payment for Multiple Applications Requires Separate Submissions MPEP 509.04(f) Required Itemization of Deficiency Payment Required for Micro Entity Fees MPEP 509.04(f) Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can I retroactively claim micro entity status for previously paid fees? What happens if I overpaid fees due to incorrect micro entity status? How do I correct an error in micro entity status if I underpaid fees? Can I correct micro entity status errors retroactively? How can I correct an error in mi...