What is the effect of recording an assignment at the USPTO?

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 an assignment at the USPTO does not determine its validity or effect on title. As stated in 37 CFR 3.54:

“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.”

The USPTO may, when necessary, determine the effect of a document and whether a party has authority to take action in matters pending before the Office.