What is the requirement for stating the last known address in a pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.47 application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

In applications filed pursuant to pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.47, it is mandatory to state the last known address of the nonsigning inventor. The MPEP states:

‘An application filed pursuant to pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.47 must state the last known address of the nonsigning inventor.’

This requirement ensures that the USPTO can attempt to contact the nonsigning inventor regarding the application filed on their behalf.

Topics: MPEP 400 - Representative of Applicant or Owner Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: 37 Cfr 1 47, 37 Cfr 147, Last Known Address, Nonsigning Inventor, pre-AIA