What is the recording date for a document at the USPTO Assignment Division?

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 recording date for a document at the USPTO Assignment Division is determined as follows:

• It is the date when a document meeting all requirements is filed with the Office.
• Documents not complying with identification requirements (37 CFR 3.21) will not be recorded.
• Documents with other deficiencies (e.g., missing cover sheet or fee) will be returned for correction.
• If corrected and resubmitted within the specified time, the original receipt date may be considered the recording date.

According to 37 CFR 3.51: “The date of recording of a document is the date the document meeting the requirements for recording set forth in this part is filed in the Office.”