What happens to papers received by the USPTO after an application is abandoned?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 7 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. When papers are received by the USPTO after an application has been abandoned, the following process occurs: The papers are entered into the Image File Wrapper. They are given a Document Code and receipt date. The papers are placed in the file but not formally entered. According to MPEP 719.01 : ‘Papers filed after the application is abandoned that are not matched with a previously created PALM folder will be added to the IFW, given a Document Code and receipt date, but will not be formally entered.’ This procedure ensures that all documents related to an application are properly recorded, even if the application is no longer active. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 7 rules Collapse Papers Not Returned After Filing Date MPEP 719.01 Permitted Papers Not Part of Record Must Not Be Entered MPEP 719.01 Recommended Notations Required for Priority Claims MPEP 719 Original Disclosure Cannot Be Expunged Without Director’s Approval MPEP 719.01 Recommended Published Abandoned Application File Available to Public MPEP 102 Required Published Abandoned Application File Available to Public MPEP 103 Permitted Published Abandoned Application File Available to Public MPEP 1128 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How can an applicant obtain copies of papers submitted to the USPTO? What happens to papers submitted to the USPTO after they are entered into the image file wrapper? What happens to papers filed after the mailing of a Notice of Allowance in an IFW application? How are sequence listings handled in the Image File Wrapper? How are papers electronically submitted to the USPTO handled in the Image File Wrapper?