When should patent examiners require correction of informalities in a patent application?

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.

According to MPEP 707.07(e), patent examiners should require correction of all informalities as soon as allowable subject matter is found in a patent application. The section states:

“As soon as allowable subject matter is found, correction of all informalities then present should be required.”

This guideline ensures that once the substantive aspects of an application are deemed allowable, any remaining formal issues or minor errors are promptly addressed. This practice helps streamline the patent application process and ensures that patents are issued with clear and accurate language.