What is the purpose of recording documents with the USPTO?

Recording documents with the USPTO serves several important purposes:

• Provides constructive notice to the public of the recorded document
• Protects against subsequent purchasers or mortgagees
• Establishes priority dates for security interests
• Maintains a clear chain of title for patents and applications

MPEP 313 states: The recording of a document pursuant to 37 CFR 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. However, recording does provide legal benefits and helps maintain accurate ownership records.

For more information on chain of title, visit: chain of title.

For more information on Constructive Notice, visit: Constructive Notice.