What types of mistakes can be corrected through a Certificate of Correction?
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.
A Certificate of Correction can be used to correct various types of mistakes in a patent, including:
- Typographical errors
- Clerical errors
- Mistakes of a minor character
According to MPEP 1481, “A mistake in a patent may be corrected by certificate of correction only if the mistake is of a clerical or typographical nature, or of minor character, and was not the fault of the Office.” It’s important to note that substantial changes or corrections that could be considered new matter are not permitted through this process.