What is an eTerminal Disclaimer?

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 eTerminal Disclaimer (eTD) is a web-based version of a terminal disclaimer that can be submitted via the USPTO’s Electronic Filing System (EFS-Web). It allows for faster processing and immediate approval if all requirements are met.

The MPEP explains: The Office provides for the submission of eTerminal Disclaimers (eTDs) via EFS-Web. A web-based eTD may be filled out completely online using web-screens and can include up to 50 reference applications and 50 reference patents. An eTD that meets all requirements is auto-processed, approved immediately upon submission, and directly loads into the USPTO databases which will increase accuracy and facilitate faster processing.