Who can sign amendments to patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. According to MPEP 714.01(a) , amendments to patent applications must be signed by: A patent practitioner of record A patent practitioner not of record who acts in a representative capacity under 37 CFR 1.34 The applicant (as defined in 37 CFR 1.42) For juristic entities, all papers must be signed by a patent practitioner unless otherwise specified. The MPEP states: Unless otherwise specified, all papers submitted on behalf of a juristic entity must be signed by a patent practitioner. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Amendments to Specification Must Follow Specific Methods MPEP 714 Required Amendments to Correct Specification Inaccuracies MPEP 714 Required Amendments to Specification Must Be Made by Adding, Deleting, or Replacing Paragraphs MPEP 714 Required Amendments to Specification Must Be Clear MPEP 714 Required Additional New Drawings Must Be Submitted on a New Sheet MPEP 714 Required Amendments Must Follow §1.173 for Reissue Applications MPEP 714 Manner of Making Amendments in Application MPEP 714 Amendments in Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 714 Amendments Required for Reissue Applications MPEP 714 Amendments Must Comply with Section Provisions for Provisional Applications MPEP 714 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the significance of proper signatures in patent applications? What is the time frame for ratifying an unsigned or improperly signed amendment? What happens if an amendment is unsigned or improperly signed? What happens if an amendment is unsigned or improperly signed? How does the USPTO handle amendments signed by suspended or excluded practitioners?