Where should confidential materials be delivered at the USPTO?

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.

To ensure proper handling of confidential materials, the MPEP recommends hand-delivering them to a specific location:

In order to ensure that such an envelope or container is not mishandled, either prior to reaching the Office, or in the Office, the envelope or container should be hand-carried to the Customer Window located at: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Customer Service Window Randolph Building 401 Dulany Street Alexandria, VA 22314

Alternatively, if hand-delivery is not possible, the materials can be mailed to:

Commissioner for Patents, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450

By following these delivery instructions, you can help ensure that your confidential materials are properly received and handled by the USPTO.