What is the date of receipt stamp for USPTO correspondence?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) stamps correspondence received with the date of receipt, known as the ‘Office Date’ stamp. This applies to papers and fees received through various methods:

  • Mail (except Priority Mail Express®)
  • Facsimile
  • EFS-Web
  • Hand-carried to the Customer Service Window

As stated in the MPEP: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) stamps papers and fees received through the mail (other than those submitted by Priority Mail Express® in accordance with 37 CFR 1.10), by facsimile, or via EFS-Web with the date of their receipt in the Office.

Topics: MPEP 500 - Receipt and Handling of Mail and Papers MPEP 505 - Date of Receipt Stamp Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Acknowledgment Timing, Electronic Receipt Date