What happens if I submit a non-original assignment document for recording?

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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. If you submit a non-original assignment document for recording, it will be rejected by the USPTO. The MPEP 302.01 clearly states: ‘The USPTO will not return documents filed for recording. Therefore, customers must submit copies of the documents to be recorded, rather than originals.’ This means that while you should submit a copy, it must be a true and complete copy of the original document. Submitting altered or incomplete copies may result in rejection and delay the recording process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Recording of Assignment Documents Required MPEP 302 Required Original Documents Must Not Be Submitted for Recording MPEP 302.01 Prohibited Requirement for Legible Document for Recording MPEP 302.01 Cover Sheets Required for Recording Assignments MPEP 302 Government Patent Interests Must Be Recorded Promptly MPEP 302 Requirement for Legible Copies for Recording MPEP 302.01 Recommended Single Side Per Page Required for Recording MPEP 302.01 Permitted Cover Sheets for Recording Documents Affecting Title MPEP 302 Instrument Must Be Recorded Again When Secrecy Ends MPEP 302 Required Requirement for Recording Joint Research Agreements MPEP 302 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Why doesn&#8217;t the USPTO return original assignment documents after recording? Can I submit a photocopy or digital scan of my assignment document for USPTO recording? What happens if an assignment document is not legible for recording? Can I submit a handwritten assignment document for recording at the USPTO? Can electronic copies of assignment documents be submitted for recording?