Learn how to file DOCX documents in your applications using Patent Center

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Patent Alert

Learn how to file DOCX documents in your applications using Patent Center

Join the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for training webinars on how to file in DOCX through Patent Center. Register today for one of the next available trainings, scheduled for December 12 and December 14.

During the training, the eCommerce Modernization (eMod) team will conduct a demonstration using the Patent Center training mode. Each session takes about an hour and includes time for questions, as well as an opportunity to use the training mode to practice DOCX filing. 

Once you have registered, you will be emailed instructions for joining the webinar prior to your session. We encourage applicants to use the Patent Center training mode to practice filing in DOCX without saving or storing data to USPTO systems. We also recommend viewing this video about how to file DOCX documents in training mode before the webinar.

As announced last year, the USPTO is switching to DOCX as part of our ongoing initiatives to use the most advanced technology, and to issue and maintain robust and reliable patents. DOCX will provide quick and reliable feedback to applicants to correct their applications before they hit the examiner’s desk, so examiners can spend more time working with applicants to identify subject matter for protection. Currently, filing in DOCX allows for automated checks that prevent unnecessary delays in processing an application.

On August 3, 2020, the USPTO published a final rule in the Federal Register that includes a fee for new patent applications filed under 35 U.S.C. § 111(a) that are not filed in DOCX format. The effective date of this new fee was then extended to January 17, 2024. 

For more information and to view frequently asked questions, visit the DOCX page of the USPTO website.

Want to learn more about the transition to DOCX filing? Check out this blog from USPTO leadership, which shares three helpful tips for filing patent applications as you move to DOCX format.

For assistance, questions, or feedback, please contact eMod@uspto.gov.

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