- Legal Framework for Patent Electronic System (October 23, 2019)
- This legal framework provides guidance on the background statutes, regulations and policies that support the USPTO’s Patent Electronic System. The framework also discusses the two-step authentication method now in place for accessing the Patent Electronic System. The framework is provided as a reference for applicants, parties in reexamination proceedings, attorneys, and agents.
- The Patent Electronic System Access Document provides additional information on the authentication, sponsorship, and identity verification requirements for accessing the patent electronic system.
- Patent Electronic System Subscriber Agreement
- Terms of Use for USPTO websites
- USPTO Privacy Policy
General information concerning patents and the patent process
More information and contact
Inquiries regarding Patent Center and other USPTO IT systems may be directed to the Patent Electronic Business Center (EBC), by telephone: 1-866-217-9197 (toll-free) and 571-272-4100, or by email: ebc@uspto.gov. Hours are 6 a.m. to 12 midnight ET, Monday through Friday.
Inquiries regarding IT policy for U.S. national patent applications may be directed to Office of Patent Legal Administration at (571) 272-7701.
Inquiries regarding IT policy for international patent applications may be directed to Office of Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Legal Administration Helpdesk, which provides information and assistance on the PCT process, by telephone at (571) 272-4300 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday or by fax at (571) 273-0419.