Patent Basics
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Patent Process OverviewA step-by-step overview of the patent application and maintenance process
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Fees and PaymentCurrent fee schedules. Also has payment procedures for patent and trademark applications and maintenance fees.
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Patent FAQsQuestions received and answered by the USPTO
Provisional Application for Patents
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Basics of Filing a Provisional ApplicationIntroduction, includes parts of a provisional application, filing requirements, forms, and fees.
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Provisional Application for PatentA provisional patent application allows you to file without a formal patent claim, oath or declaration, or any information disclosure (prior art) statement.
Brochures/Guides for Filing Patent Applications
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General Information about 35 U.S.C. 161 Plant PatentsThis publication provides a basic overview of plant patents
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Nonprovisional (Utility) Patent Application Filing GuideA Guide to Filing a Utility Patent Application
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Design Patent Application GuideA Guide To Filing A Design Patent Application
Additional Application Forms
Patent Electronic Business Center
The Patent Electronic Business Center (EBC) assists customers with the various Patent Electronic Systems which include filing and reviewing their electronic patent application submissions via Patent Center, as well as supporting customers using Patent Public Search. The center has extended hours to offer technical assistance on a range of topics.
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Patent Electronic Business CenterToll-Free: 866-217-9197
Local: 571-272-4100
6:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight, Eastern Time, Monday through Friday
ebc@uspto.gov
Roster of Patent Attorneys and Agents
The USPTO maintains a roster of patent agents and attorneys who are authorized to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office. You may use their database (search or download) to obtain the most current information on practitioners in your city, county or zip code.
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Patent Practitioner Home PageThe USPTO's searchable roster of registered patent agents and attorneys. Also has practitioner disciplinary history and information on becoming a practitioner.
Inventor's Assistance Center
Staffed by former Supervisory Patent Examiners and experienced Primary Examiners, the Inventors Assistance Center (IAC) answers questions concerning patent examining policy and procedure .
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Inventors Assistance Center (IAC)Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM (ET), except federal holidays
Toll-free: 800-PTO-9199 (800-786-9199)
Local: 571-272-1000
TDD/TTY customers can dial 800-877-8339 for customer assistance