What should be included in the preamble of a requirement for information?

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 preamble of a requirement for information should include specific elements as outlined in MPEP 704.14(a):

• A statement of statutory basis for the requirement
• The time period within which the applicant must reply

The MPEP states: ‘The requirement for information should include a preamble comprising a statement of the statutory basis for the requirement under 37 CFR 1.105 and the time period within which the applicant must reply.’ This preamble sets the legal context for the requirement and informs the applicant of their response deadline.