Who can change the correspondence address in a patent application?

The correspondence address in a patent application can be changed by specific parties as outlined in 37 CFR 1.33(a):

• A patent practitioner of record (37 CFR 1.33(b)(1))
• The applicant (37 CFR 1.33(b)(3))
• Prior to the appointment of any power of attorney, any patent practitioner named in the application transmittal papers who acts in a representative capacity under 37 CFR 1.34

It’s important to note that after a power of attorney has been appointed, a practitioner acting in a representative capacity cannot change the correspondence address until after the patent has issued, and only with proper notice to the patentee or owner.

To learn more:

• correspondence address
• patent application
• change of address
• patent practitioner