What is an S-signature in patent correspondence?
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 S-signature is an electronically created signature used in patent correspondence. According to MPEP 502.02:
An S-signature is a signature inserted between forward slash marks, but not a handwritten signature as defined by 37 CFR 1.4(d)(1). An S-signature includes any signature made by electronic or mechanical means, and any other mode of making or applying a signature other than a handwritten signature as provided for in 37 CFR 1.4(d)(1).
S-signatures must meet specific requirements to be considered valid:
- They must be between two forward slash marks
- They can include letters, numbers, and punctuation marks
- They must be personally inserted by the signer
- They must be reasonably specific to the signer
S-signatures provide a convenient way for applicants and practitioners to sign documents electronically while maintaining the legal weight of a handwritten signature.