What information about patent applications can be disclosed to the public?

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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. The USPTO can disclose limited information about patent applications to the public, as outlined in 37 CFR 1.14(a)(2): Whether the application is pending, abandoned, or patented Whether the application has been published The application’s numerical identifier Whether another application claims benefit of the application This information can only be disclosed if the application is identified in a published patent document or in another application as specified in 37 CFR 1.14(a)(1)(i) through (a)(1)(vi). Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Access to Published Patent Application Files Is Allowed Upon Request MPEP 101 Required Patent Application Publication Timing and Conditions MPEP 101 Required Confidentiality of Unpublished Patent Applications MPEP 101 Permitted Confidentiality of Unpublished Patent Applications MPEP 101 Required Patent Application Must Be Published After 18 Months MPEP 101 Required Patent Applications with National Security Concerns Must Not Be Published MPEP 101 Required Patent Application Files Must Be Kept Confidential and Accessible MPEP 101 Recommended Access to Published Abandoned Patent Application Files MPEP 101 Required Director Determines Public Disclosure of Published Patents MPEP 101 Required Public Access to Issued Patent Applications MPEP 101 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the USPTO handle telephone and in-person requests for patent application information? What are the penalties for unauthorized disclosure of patent application information? When are patent applications published? What is the confidentiality status of patent applications? What are the exceptions to the 18-month publication rule for ...