What happens if I need to change the order of benefit claims in my patent application?

What happens if I need to change the order of benefit claims in my patent application?

Changing the order of benefit claims in a patent application requires specific actions, as outlined in MPEP 211.02(a):

“If applicant needs to change the order of benefit claims presented in an application data sheet or patent, applicant must file a corrected application data sheet under 37 CFR 1.76(c) or a Certificate of Correction, as appropriate.”

The method you choose depends on the status of your application:

  • For pending applications: File a corrected Application Data Sheet (ADS) under 37 CFR 1.76(c).
  • For issued patents: File a Certificate of Correction.

It’s important to note that changing the order of benefit claims may affect the effective filing date of your application, which could impact patentability considerations.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 200 - Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: application data sheet, benefit claims, Certificate of Correction