What is the filing date for a nonprovisional patent application?

The filing date for a nonprovisional patent application depends on the type of application and when it was filed:

• For applications filed on or after December 18, 2013 (except design applications): The filing date is the date when a specification, with or without claims, is received by the USPTO.
• For design applications: The filing date is the date when the specification (including at least one claim), and any required drawings are received by the USPTO.
• For applications filed before December 18, 2013: The filing date is the date when a specification containing a description and at least one claim, and any necessary drawings are filed with the USPTO.

The MPEP states: Except for design applications, the filing date for applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 111 on or after December 18, 2013 is the date on which a specification, with or without claims, is received in the Office.

To learn more:

• filing date
• nonprovisional application
• patent application
• USPTO