Who needs a cover sheet?
Everybody who wants to protect his intellectual property and receive a patent for invention must file this cover sheet and a provisional application for patent with United States Patent and Trademark Office. It can be used by an individual or by a group of inventors to describe one invention they would like to register.
What is this cover sheet for?
This cover sheet represents the main page of a provisional application for a patent. It must contain general information about the invention, its author(s), their contacts and mailing addresses. The rest of the application will provide more details about an invention, including drawings and writings with precise descriptions.
Is it accompanied by other forms?
Yes, it is. Inventors must file this cover sheet alongside provisional application papers (writings and drawings) and a filing fee. Fees are subject to change annually. See current fees at www.uspto.gov. Payment by check or money order must be addressed to "Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office."
When is this form due?
Once the inventor made a public disclosure of his discovery, he has 12 months to apply for a patent. Instructions to this form define public disclosure as public use, publication or offer for sale.
How do I fill out a provisional application for patent cover sheet?
In the cover sheet applicants must identify:
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That this application is a provisional application for patent
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The names of the inventors
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Their places of residence
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The title of the invention
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Name and registration number of the attorney or agent and docket number
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Correspondence address
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Any U.S. government agency that has a property interest in the application
Where do I send it?
You can send it electronically via EFS-Web or mail it. The mailing address is:
Commissioner for Patents
P.O. Box 1450
Alexandria, VA 22313-1450