What should be included in the image file wrapper of a patent application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 7 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. The image file wrapper of a patent application should contain all papers that become a permanent part of the record. According to MPEP 719.01 : Papers that do not become a permanent part of the record should not be entered as a paper in the image file wrapper. This means that all official correspondence, applicant submissions, and other documents relevant to the examination and prosecution of the patent application should be included in the image file wrapper. Temporary or informal notes, drafts, or other non-essential documents should not be entered into the official record. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 7 rules Collapse Papers Not Part of Record Must Not Be Entered MPEP 719.01 Recommended Notations Required for Priority Claims MPEP 719 Original Disclosure Cannot Be Expunged Without Director’s Approval MPEP 719.01 Recommended Papers Not Returned After Filing Date MPEP 719.01 Permitted Patent Application Information Must Be Kept Confidential Until Published MPEP 103 Permitted Published Patent Application Not Maintained in Patent Center MPEP 1128 Public Can Request Patent Application Copies MPEP 1128 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How can an applicant obtain copies of papers submitted to the USPTO? What happens to papers submitted to the USPTO after they are entered into the image file wrapper? What happens to papers filed after the mailing of a Notice of Allowance in an IFW application? How are sequence listings handled in the Image File Wrapper? How are papers electronically submitted to the USPTO handled in the Image File Wrapper?