When are patent applications published by the USPTO?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 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. Patent applications are generally published by the USPTO 18 months after the earliest filing date for which a benefit is sought. This is specified in 35 U.S.C. 122(b)(1)(A) : Subject to paragraph (2), each application for a patent shall be published, in accordance with procedures determined by the Director, promptly after the expiration of a period of 18 months from the earliest filing date for which a benefit is sought under this title. At the request of the applicant, an application may be published earlier than the end of such 18-month period. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as applications that are no longer pending or are subject to a secrecy order. Applicants can also request early publication or non-publication under certain conditions. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Application Must Be Published After 18 Months MPEP 101 Required Patent Application Publication Timing and Conditions MPEP 101 Required Patent Applications with National Security Concerns Must Not Be Published MPEP 101 Required Request for Early Publication of Patent Application MPEP 101 Permitted Application Shall Not Be Published If MPEP 101 Prohibited Access to Published Patent Application Files Is Allowed Upon Request MPEP 101 Required Applicant Can Withdraw Patent Application Request At Any Time MPEP 101 Permitted Patent Application Files Must Be Kept Confidential and Accessible MPEP 101 Recommended Application Must Be Published After Rescission or Foreign Filing Notification MPEP 101 Required Confidentiality of Unpublished Patent Applications MPEP 101 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the USPTO handle telephone and in-person request...