USPTO Announces Extension of Permission to File Optional Applicant-Generated Backup PDF for Six Months

On December 19, 2022, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced that it will continue to allow applicants the option to file an applicant-generated backup PDF (so-called “auxiliary PDF”) application along with the DOCX formatted application for six more months (through June 30, 2023).  The USPTO reiterates that the filing of an auxiliary PDF is optional and does not incur any extra USPTO fees.

According to the USPTO, “[i]f an applicant files a patent application in DOCX format with an auxiliary PDF, the auxiliary PDF can be used as evidence in correcting the certified copy at the USPTO. If an applicant provides an auxiliary PDF of the application along with the DOCX version of the application at the time of filing, a copy of the auxiliary PDF is also included with the certified copy.”

The USPTO also continues to encourage applicants to use the Patent Center “training mode” to test-file DOCX formatted applications before officially filing the same.  Patent Center “training mode” is available here:  https://patentcenter.uspto.gov/?trainingMode=1

 The USPTO’s December 19^th announcement is available here:  https://www.uspto.gov/blog/director/entry/top-three-helpful-tips-for1