USPTO Transition to eGrants from Paper Patents
March 20, 2023
On April 18, 2023, the USPTO will move from paper patents to electronically generated patents (eGrants). This applies to all types of patents (utility, design, plant and reissue). The benefit of eGrant is that the patentee and public may view and download a certified PDF of the patent directly from Patent Center, the USPTO’s patent application filing and management system, as soon as it issues. eGrant minimizes paper waste, streamlines the grant process and potentially reduces the application pendency. Patentees will still be able to obtain a paper-bound version of the patent for a nominal fee.
The greatest change in this process is that eGrants will issue quickly after the issue fee is paid. Continuing applications should be filed prior to paying the issue fee to ensure copendency is maintained. This is a change from current practice where Applicants have some time to file continuing applications after the issue fee is paid.
If you have any questions or would like further information about the USPTO’s transition to eGrant, please contact us.
