GOT QUESTIONS? WE’VE GOT ANSWERS!
At Gulf Coast Intellectual Property Group we can answer any question you might have about the patent filing process. Here are some Frequently asked questions, we also have additional patent FAQ’s in video.
Gulf Coast Intellectual Property Group provides low cost, High quality Patent applications. We can prepare and file your U.S. Patent application for much less than most other law groups. Our Patent Practitioners have decades of experience so you can be sure your application is prepared with excellent attention to every detail. Protect your idea or product today by calling Gulf Coast Intellectual Property Group.
NEED PATENT HELP ?
Our Patent Law Group can help you no matter where you live. Patent Law is Federal so we can represent you no matter where you live. Whether you live on the East Coast, West Coast or Mid-West, Gulf Coast IP can prepare and prosecute your Patent application. And with no-charge consultations you can be assured that we are there to answer your questions every time you need to speak with us.
If I live outside the US, can I get a US patent?
Yes, US residency is not required for a US Patent. Any inventor, no matter where they live can file for Patent protection in the US.
If I am not a US citizen can I get a US patent?
Yes, US citizenship is not required to file for a Patent. Any inventor, regardless of their citizenship can file for a Patent in the US.
What documents do I need to file for a patent?
There are many documents that are prepared when filing a Patent. At a minimum you need an Application Disclosure Statement, An Oath and Declaration, Specification, Formal Patent Drawings and of course the USPTO Filing Fee.
If I file for a patent and it is rejected, can I re-submit it for a patent again?
Yes, you can either appeal the decision or re-prepare your application and try again providing no other statutory bars were violated.
Is there an appeal process if my patent is denied?
Yes, there is an Appeals process.
Can I start selling in other country’s while I wait to get a patent in the US?
Yes, you can sell wherever you like, just remember the US Patent protects you in the US marketplace not another country.
What are the requirements of non US citizens to be granted a United States patent?
US citizenship is not required to file for a Patent. Any inventor, regardless of their citizenship can file for a Patent in the US
Who do I have to show my invention to, in order to get a patent?
You do not have to show your invention to anyone. Additionally, it is not required to make your invention before filing for a Patent.
Do I need to keep any kind of records of my invention process?
It is not required, but it is always a good idea to keep notes with dates.
Can I mail my invention idea to myself to establish the date that I invented It?
No, this provides no protection at all.
Can I get a patent for a i Pad case I printed on my 3D printer?
Yes, if you created a unique Design for an iPad case you can file for a Design Patent.
If I file for a provisional patent, does this mean it will be public?
No, Provisional applications are not published.
What personal information is listed on a US Patent?
On the printed Patent it is just your name.
If I file for a patent,will my address be publicly listed on the patent office website?
Your records can be accessed once published through the USPTO PAIR system.
What personal information does the patent office need from me in order to file for a patent?
Just your name and address.
Does owning a US patent give you a better credit score?
No.
If a patent protects me from others making a profit from my invention; Then what does a trademark do?
A trademark protects a brand name or logo, i.e. the source of the good, the Patent protects the good itself.
How much does it cost to copyright a website?
You can file a copyright for a website for about 50 dollars.
How do I know if invention will make money?
You don’t. Every business takes a risk with every product. Remember the Segway? Great idea BIG money loser.
Can I get a patent for an invention that does not exists yet? ( I have not built it yet, I only have the plans ready)
Yes, it is not required to build the invention first, in fact most are not..
When I get a patent, how do people that might want to buy it find it?
You can market the Patent through many channels in order to find a buyer.
When did the patent office in the United States get started?
Over 150 years ago. For a complete history of the US patent office click here
Do I need to take photographs of my invention to send to the patent office?
No, most applications require Formal Patent drawings that are prepared as part of the application preparation process.
Can I make a video of my invention working to get a patent?
No, Formal Patent drawings are required, video submissions are not allowed as part of the application process.
Should I try to sell the invention first or should I get a patent first?
Patent it first. Once you make an offer for sale you only have 12 months to file for a Patent. If you miss that date you are barred from filing for a Patent.
Can the company I work for get a patent for something I made on my own to make my job easier?
You need to check with your employer. You’ll always be the inventor but they may want ownership of the Patent.
If my invention takes off and starts selling, at what point do I need to get a patent?
Once you make an offer for sale you only have 12 months to file for a Patent. If you miss that date you are barred from filing for a Patent.
What is the difference between a patent agent and a patent attorney?
Both perform the same duties in preparing and prosecuting a Patent application. Both took and passed the USPTO Bar Exam. The Patent Attorney can practice state law in whatever state they are registered in under that state’s bar.
Are patent agents cheaper then patent attorneys?
In general yes but not much difference.
How do I find out of a patent Practitioner is registered with the United States Patent Office?
Go to www.uspto.gov and perform a Practitioner search.
How can I know for sure if my invention can be patented?
Ultimately the USPTO makes that decision but working with a Patent Law Group, they can help determine your chances.
Can I say my invention is " patent Pending" if I am going to get a patent in the future?
No, you must have an application filed with the USPTO.
Do I need to negotiate with the car manufacturer to get a patent for an aftermarket part I invented?
No, it is your idea. You can file for a Patent and then try to sell your idea to the car companies.
Does the patent office give me a formal certificate once I get a patent?
Yes, it is called a Ribbon Copy.
If a company decides to buy my invention, does my name get taken off the patent?
No you are always listed as the inventor.
Does it cost more to get a patent with more then one inventor?
No, a Patent costs the same whether its one inventor or 25.
If I work together with someone else to invent a new product, who should be listed as the " patent holder"?
All individuals contributing to the material elements of the invention should be listed as inventors
Do I need to have a business license to get a patent for an invention?
No.
Do I need to provide receipts for the materials I used on my new invention?
No.
Can I list my business name as the inventor on a patent?
No, but you can list your business name as the assignee.
Can I put a patent in my sons name even though I invented it?
No, you have to be listed as the inventor but you can assign the Patent to your son.
What happens if I loose my patent paperwork?
All Patent application documents are maintained by the USPTO.
Does filing for a sports related product/invention cost more then other types of patents?
No.
Are corporations given preference at the USPTO?
No, applications are processed in the order they are received.
Can I get a patent in Canada and still have protection in the US?
No, A US Patent is required for protection in the US.
When is the best time to use " patent pending" on a product?
Anytime there is a application pending with the USPTO you should use “Patent Pending”.
Do company’s search the patent database and buy patents?
Yes, there are Patent holding companies that seek to buy Patents in various fields.
I am not a US citizen, does this make a US patent cost more?
No.
Do I have to send my invention to a patent Practitioner to get a patent?
No, typically drawings, photos(if available) sketches or just a discussion is all that is required.
Do I need to personally travel to the patent office to get a patent?
No, all filings are performed electronically.
Can I get a patent for new kind of food?
Patents on food are limited mostly to the method of making the food.
