What is the Issue Classification sheet and why is it important?

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 Issue Classification sheet is a document completed by the examiner when preparing a patent application for issue. It’s important because it contains crucial information about the application, including classification data and selected claims and figures for publication.

According to the MPEP, The examiner preparing the application for issue completes the Issue Classification sheet. This sheet helps ensure that all relevant information about the application is accurately recorded before it’s granted as a patent.