Patent Application Fees
- Filing fees must be paid in full.
- Fees are paid according to the entity status established at the time of payment.
MICRO ENTITY STATUS
Reduces most patent fees by 75%
How to Apply for Micro Entity Status:
- Declare Micro Entity Status on the Patent Application Data Sheet (PDS) during the application filing process. The applicant must check the box indicating eligibility for micro entity status.
- Provide Certification: Applicants must certify that they meet the requirements for micro entity status (income limits, number of patents, etc.).
Benefits of Micro Entity Status:
- Fee Reductions:
- 75% reduction in most USPTO fees compared to standard fees, including filing, search, and examination fees. This is especially helpful for independent inventors, small businesses, and universities.
- Example: A utility patent filing fee, which typically costs $320 for a large entity, would cost only $80 for a micro entity.
- Cost Savings on Other Services:
- Reduced fees apply to maintenance fees, which are required to keep a granted patent in force.
Key Differences Between Small Entity and Micro Entity:
- Small Entity: A small entity gets a 50% fee reduction and is typically used by independent inventors or small businesses (with fewer than 500 employees).
- Micro Entity: A micro entity qualifies for a 75% fee reduction and has stricter requirements, including income limits and a cap on previous patents.
| Criteria | Micro Entity | Small Entity |
|---|---|---|
| Income | Less than 3x median household income | Less than 500 employees, no large corporate affiliates |
| Patent Ownership | Fewer than 4 previously filed applications | Same as micro entity |
| Fee Reduction | 75% reduction on USPTO fees | 50% reduction on USPTO fees |