What is cross-noting in patent applications?

Cross-noting in patent applications refers to the process of recording and verifying information about prior applications, including U.S. and foreign applications, for which benefit or priority is claimed. This information is typically noted on the bibliographic data (bib-data) sheet of the application and is used to ensure accurate representation of priority claims on the front page of a printed patent.

According to MPEP 202, “The front page of a printed patent identifies all prior applications for which benefits are claimed under 35 U.S.C. 119(e), 120, 121, 365(c), or 386(c) in continuation-in-part, continuation, divisional, and reissue applications.”