Postal service interruption notices published for USPTO customers affected by hurricanes and wildfires

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has posted notices designating the interruptions in service of the United States Postal Service in the areas affected by Hurricane Laura in Louisiana and Texas; Hurricane Sally in Alabama, Florida, and Louisiana; and the wildfires in California, Oregon, and Washington as postal service interruptions and emergencies within the meaning of 35 U.S.C. § 21(a). The designations provide support for any relevant petition to the Director under 37 CFR 1.10(i), or 2.146 and 2.195(d) to consider correspondence as filed on a particular date.

The designations have no impact on electronic filings at the USPTO.

The notices will also be published in the Official Gazette.

New Webpage for Customers Affected by Hurricanes

The USPTO has a new webpage for customers affected by Hurricane Harvey. It includes contact information for those who may have questions or problems regarding applications or other proceedings related to patents, trademarks, or other business before the agency. The webpage will be updated to include links to forthcoming guidance and instructions for customers impacted by Harvey, and for those impacted by Hurricane Irma should it become necessary.