What should I do if there are variations in my signature on different patent documents?

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.

If there are variations in your signature across different patent documents, you should:

• Try to use a consistent signature for all patent correspondence to avoid confusion.
• Be prepared for the USPTO to require ratification or confirmation of the signature if there are significant variations.
• If asked to ratify, state that you personally signed the previously submitted document and, if needed, submit a compliant format of the signature.

According to the MPEP: “For consistency purposes, and to avoid raising a doubt as to who has signed, the same S-signature should be utilized each time, with variations of the signature being avoided.”

If the USPTO requires ratification, they may ask you to submit a statement or a duplicate document with a compliant signature. This helps ensure the authenticity of signatures and clarity of the record.