What happens if the USPTO can’t reach a patent owner at their address of record?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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. What happens if the USPTO can’t reach a patent owner at their address of record? If the USPTO cannot reach a patent owner at their address of record, it may have serious consequences for the patent. According to MPEP 2805 : “ It is important for the Office to have a correct address for the patent owner . … Correspondence will be mailed to the patent owner at the address of record. If the Office does not have a current address for the patent owner, the Office may rely on the previously provided address information until the patent owner submits a new address.” This means: Important notices may not reach the patent owner Deadlines could be missed, potentially leading to patent expiration The patent owner might not be aware of third-party challenges or requests for examination To avoid these issues, patent owners should promptly update their address using the appropriate Change of Correspondence Address Form whenever there are changes. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Owner Address for Supplemental Examination MPEP 2805 Correct Correspondence Address for Patent Owners MPEP 2805 Patent Owner Address for Communications MPEP 2805 No Normal Double Correspondence with Patent Owner MPEP 2805 Request for Change of Correspondence Address MPEP 2542 Permitted Correct Correspondence Address for Patent Owners MPEP 2222 Change of Correspondence Address Required for Supplemental Examination MPEP 2804 Recommended Patent Owners or Record Agent Can Sign Change Request MPEP 2805 Permitted Change of Correspondence Address Allowed During Patent Life MPEP 2540 Change of Correspondence Address Must Be Identified in Continuation/Divisional Application MPEP 201.06(c)...