What types of amendments are typically entered after allowance without withdrawal?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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.

Certain types of amendments can be entered after allowance without withdrawing the application from issue. The MPEP 1303.01 provides examples:

  • Amendments under 37 CFR 1.312 which do not affect the scope of the claims
  • Amendments to the specification which do not affect the scope of the claims
  • Corrections of informalities (grammatical, typographical, etc.)
  • Cancellation of claims
  • Incorporation of drawings

The MPEP states: “Where the amendment is filed in reply to a suggestion by the examiner, the amendment will be entered, if appropriate, without withdrawing the application from issue.”

However, it’s important to note that any amendment that affects the scope of the claims or requires substantial review by the examiner may necessitate withdrawing the application from issue. For more details, refer to MPEP 1303.01.

Tags: 37 CFR 1.312, amendment after allowance, patent prosecution