What is the effect of recording a document at the USPTO?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 3 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. Recording a document at the USPTO has the following effects: It does not determine the validity of the document or its effect on title. The Office may determine a document’s effect when necessary for Office proceedings. Conditional assignments are treated as absolute assignments until canceled. Recording provides protection against subsequent purchasers without notice. 37 CFR 3.54 states: The recording of a document pursuant to §3.11 is not a determination by the Office of the validity of the document or the effect that document has on the title to an application, a patent, or a registration. Additionally, according to 35 U.S.C. 261 , timely recording at the USPTO is crucial for maintaining superiority of rights against subsequent purchasers. For more information on document recording, visit: document recording . For more information on patent assignment, visit: patent assignment . For more information on USPTO procedures, visit: USPTO procedures . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 3 rules Collapse Nonrecordable Documents Returned with Explanation MPEP 317 Sender Can Petition for Unusual Case Recordation MPEP 317 Permitted Request Under 37 CFR 1.48 in Patent Treated as Petition MPEP 1481.02 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the recording date for a document at the USPTO? How are documents with other deficiencies handled by the USPTO? Can the original filing date be preserved for corrected documents? What happens if corrected documents are not resubmitted within the specified period? What happens to documents submitted for recording at the USPTO Assignment Division?