How to Get a Patent on an Idea Step by Step

Thursday, August 7th 2014. | Tips
How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

If you have a new invention or concept, you must learn how to get a patent on an idea so that no one will be able to copy, use or sell your idea within the United States. Provided you’ve done the research and determined your idea is unique, you can proceed with the filing of an application.

1. Register Electronically

The first step is to register electronically so you can get a digital certificate and customer number. To do this, go to the official website of the USPTo (United States

{Patent and Trademark Office). A digital certificate is necessary to ensure that your application is recorded.

To get the certificate, agree to the subscriber agreement on the USPTo website and fill up the Certificate Action form.

2. Prepare the Documents and Attachments

Prepare the attachments in PDF format, guidelines for which are available on the USPTo website. Briefly they should include:

  • A specification consisting of a written description of your idea
  • Drawings or illustrations if applicable
  • A declaration you believe that the invention is yours and original

3. Wait for the Reference Number and Authorization Code

Once you have submitted the Certificate Action form, wait for the processing to be completed, after which you’ll be emailed the authorization code and the reference number sent by US mail or email. In other instances the USPTo may call and give you the reference number, so make sure the contact information you provide is accurate.

4. Fill up the Online Patent Application Form

Now that you know how to get a patent on an idea and received the code and reference numbers, it’s time to fill up the application form on the USPTo website. To fill up the form:

  • Log in using your digital certificate
  • Use the password given you along with the certificate
  • Fill up the required data such as your name, address and the name of your invention
  • Attach the PDF attachments you prepared
  • Determine the fee by using the calculation tool provided on the website
  • Review the information you provided and if everything is correct, submit it
  • You have the option to pay right now or later, and there are several payment options available

5. Wait for the Application to be Approved

Now you just need to wait for your application to be given approval. Once your application has been approved, you will be required to pay a fee prior to granting of the patent. If your patent is rejected, you can still protect it by applying for copyright or have it trademarked. Another option is to simply file an application and have it declared a trade secret so no one can copy it.

The most important thing to remember when studying how to get a patent on an idea is to make sure it can be patented. To make things easier, any idea involving matter composition, manufacturing, process, or improvement of any of those are eligible for patent. Natural phenomenon and abstract ideas however, will not be accepted.

How to Get a Patent on an Idea Step by Step photos

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea - inventing process

How to Get a Patent on an Idea – inventing process

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea

How to Get a Patent on an Idea Step by Step article and images

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