What is the significance of a customer number in USPTO correspondence?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. A customer number is a crucial tool for managing correspondence with the USPTO. According to MPEP 403 : ‘A customer number allows an applicant, attorney or agent to easily change the correspondence address for a number of applications or patents by simply requesting a change to the address associated with the customer number.’ Key benefits of using a customer number include: Streamlined correspondence management for multiple applications Easy updates to address information Efficient access to application information through USPTO systems By using a customer number, patent professionals can significantly simplify their administrative processes when dealing with the USPTO. For more information on Customer Number, visit: Customer Number . For more information on USPTO correspondence, visit: USPTO correspondence . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Change Customer Number Through USPTO System Required MPEP 403 Customer Number for Correspondence Address Required MPEP 403 Permitted Forms for Customer Number Practice Required MPEP 403 Customer Number Practice Does Not Permit Law Firm Appointment MPEP 403 Customer Number Practice Permitted for Appointment of Practitioners MPEP 403 Permitted Single Customer Number for Correspondence Address MPEP 403 Permitted Customer Number for POA and Address Designation MPEP 403 Permitted Change Patent Correspondence to Customer Number MPEP 403 Correspondence Customer Number Required for USPTO Access MPEP 403 Permitted Customer Number Over Typed Address MPEP 403.01(b) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if a patent application is filed without a correspondence address? How is correspondence handled when two pat...