What is an abandoned patent application?

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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. An abandoned patent application is one that has been removed from the Office docket of pending applications. According to MPEP 203.05, this can occur in several ways: Through formal abandonment by the applicant or their attorney/agent Due to failure of the applicant to take appropriate action during prosecution For failure to pay the issue fee In the case of a provisional application, no later than 12 months after the filing date As stated in MPEP 203.05: An abandoned application is, inter alia, one which is removed from the Office docket of pending applications . The specific reasons for abandonment are listed in the same section. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Abandoned Application Requirements MPEP 203 Abandoned Application Requirements MPEP 203.05 Notice of Allowability Form and Status Inquiries for Patents MPEP 203 Permitted Status of Allowed Nonprovisional Applications MPEP 203 Required Status Information Available Through Patent Center MPEP 203 PTOL-37 and PTOL-85 in Allowed Applications MPEP 203.08 Permitted Nonprovisional Application Before First Office Action MPEP 203 Request for Continued Examination Not a New Application MPEP 203 Status Inquiry After Six Months Without Response MPEP 203 Recommended Amendment Before First Office Action Does Not Alter New Application Status MPEP 203 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the main reasons for patent application abandonment? What is the significance of the Office docket in patent application status? When is a provisional patent application considered abandoned? What happens to an application after it becomes abandoned? What happens if an applicant fails to take appropriate action du...