What is Form PTO/AIA/82 and how is it used for appointing a power of attorney?

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.

Form PTO/AIA/82 is a USPTO form used by the applicant for patent to appoint one or more patent practitioners as power of attorney. This form consists of three parts:

• Part A (PTO/AIA/82A): A transmittal page used to identify the application to which the power of attorney is directed. It must be signed by a proper 37 CFR 1.33(b) party.
• Part B (PTO/AIA/82B): The actual power of attorney, which may also specify the correspondence address. This part must be signed by the applicant.
• Part C (PTO/AIA/82C): An optional page that may be used to appoint up to 10 patent practitioners by name and registration number.

The MPEP notes that “PTO/AIA/82 may be used like a general power of attorney, if desired.” For example, an officer of a juristic entity assignee could sign Part B, leaving the “Application Number” and “Filing Date” boxes empty. Then, a patent practitioner could complete and sign one Part A for each respective application and file a copy of Part B with each Part A.

It’s important to note that the “Application Number” and “Filing Date” boxes on Part B must be completed to identify the application if Part A or an equivalent is not filed with Part B. These boxes may not be filled in by a patent practitioner after Part B has been signed by the applicant.