What happens if there are insufficient funds when paying USPTO fees?

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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 there are insufficient funds when paying USPTO fees, several consequences may occur: The fee payment will be considered incomplete. Your application or request may not be processed. You may incur additional fees or penalties. In some cases, you might lose filing date benefits. The MPEP 509 warns, “If the Office receives a check drawn on a deposit account with insufficient funds, the fee will be considered unpaid.” For electronic payments, “If the electronic fund transfer is refused, or if the credit card is declined or invalid, the fee will be considered unpaid.” It’s crucial to ensure sufficient funds are available to avoid these issues and potential delays in your patent or trademark process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Payment of Fees by Credit Card Permitted MPEP 509 Payment of Fees by Credit Card Is Required MPEP 509 Credit Card Fee Must Be In Writing MPEP 509 Credit Card Payments Allowed for USPTO Fees Except Deposit Replenishment MPEP 509 Required Credit Card Fee Payment Requires Specific Information MPEP 509 Required Credit Card Payment Form for Fees MPEP 509 Permitted No Requirement for Credit Card Form When Paying Fees MPEP 509 Credit Card Payment for Fees Must Be In Writing MPEP 509 Required Credit Card Payment Not Required via USPTO Electronic Filing System MPEP 509 Required Credit Card Payment Form Required for Manual Payments MPEP 509 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Are there any fee reductions or waivers available for USPTO patent fees? What are the accepted methods of payment for USPTO fees? What are the consequences of bounced checks or insufficient funds for USPTO fee payments? How should fees be itemized w...