EFS-Web is a web-based patent application and document submission solution that utilizes
standard web-based screens and prompts to enable you to submit a portable document format
(PDF) file directly to the USPTO.
Q:
What's the benefit to using EFS-Web?
EFS-Web offers you the ability to file patent applications and other patent documents electronically
in a fraction of the time and at substantially less cost than paper filings. You forgo printing,
postage, courier costs, and you receive immediate notification that your submission has been
received. Unlike paper filings, most new applications submitted electronically can be viewed in
Private PAIR in just a few hours after filing.
Q:
What types of filings may I submit using EFS Web?
Registered and Unregistered eFilers may file new utility, provisional, design, National Stage
applications under 35 USC 371, text files (sequence listing, computer listings, mega tables), and
International Applications for filing in the US receiving office. Registered eFilers may also file
follow-on documents and/or fees for previously filed applications, a Petition under 37 CFR 1.378(c),
and Pre-grant publications.
Q:
Once I file an application with EFS-Web, do I also have to file subsequent documents with EFS-Web?
If I originally filed by paper, can I use EFS-Web to submit follow-on documents?
You may choose to file by paper or with EFS-Web at any time during the application process. The
method of filing the initial application does not determine the method for filing any subsequent
documents.
Q:
How do you submit sequence list disks via EFS-Web?
Your sequence listing should be in the form of a text (.txt) file which can be attached and
uploaded via EFS-Web.
Q:
Who can file documents using EFS-Web?
Both Registered and Unregistered users are able to file. The major difference is that Registered
users (i.e., those holding a Digital Certificate or working under the direction of a PKI certificate
holder) are able to view documents on Private PAIR after they file, while Unregistered users
cannot. In addition, Registered users are able to file documents and/or fees associated with
previously filed patent applications, Pre-grant publications, and a Petition under 37 CFR 1.378(c).
Q:
Do I need a new/different Digital Certificate for EFS-Web (users of old EFS or old Private PAIR)?
No. You will use the same Digital Certificate and password that you currently use for Private
Pair and the old EFS system.
Q:
What are the signature requirements for filing using EFS-Web?
The signature policy of EFS-Web is addressed in detail in the EFS-Web Legal Framework. PDF
files submitted using EFS-Web should include either a handwritten signature in compliance with
37 CFR 1.4(d)(1) inserted before scanning the document or converting it to image-based PDF
form or an S-signature in compliance with 37 CFR 1.4(d)(2) . When filing a new application by
EFS-Web, a signed transmittal form or a signed application data sheet (ADS) is recommended
for identification purposes. However, a signature is not required to obtain a filing date for a new
patent application.
Q:
How long is the period of inactivity before users will automatically timeout?
After one hour of inactivity, users will be asked if they'd like to extend their session, if no action
is taken, the user will time out of the session and lose any unsaved information.
Q:
Do I need to download USPTO software onto my computer to use EFS-Web?
No. EFS-Web is a web-based tool. All you require is Internet access of at least 56 Kbps and
a standard operating system that is compatible with EFS-Web. You must have Adobe Reader 7.0.8
or higher to use the latest version of the fillable forms.
Q:
Can I submit files in formats other than PDF using EFS-Web?
EFS-Web accepts PDF, Text, and PCT-Safe Zip files only. In the future, other file types may be
added.
Q:
What types of PDF creation software can I use to produce the PDF files that will be accepted by
the USPTO?
The most common versions of commercial PDF creation software will be accepted by EFS-Web:
ABXPDF Writer (no configuration required)
Adobe
Open Office (Freeware)
Easy Office (Ad ware)
Cute PDF (Freeware)
PDF Redirect (Freeware)
PDF 995 (Ad ware)
Primo PDF (Freeware)
USPTO supports PDF standards versions 1.1 to 1.6, and Adobe Reader 7.0.8 or higher to use EFS
Fillable forms.
Q:
Is there a size limit for the PDF files submitted using EFS-Web?
Yes, each file must be smaller than 25 MB. One can upload up to 60 files per submission. Please
note that only 20 files can be uploaded at a time (i.e. Attach only 20 files each time you press
"Upload and Validate").
Q:
What is a multi-doc PDF?
For your convenience, the USPTO will accept PDF files that contain multiple documents, which
should be indexed separately in the Image File Wrapper (IFW). For example, a patent application
may contain a specification (e.g. description), claims, abstract, and drawings, which should be
listed as separate documents in IFW. Enter the page ranges for each section so that the documents
are properly displayed in the IFW.
Q:
What is a form fillable PDF?
Certain USPTO forms are fillable, dynamic and saveable using Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.0.8 or
greater. The forms can be downloaded, data can be entered into the forms and saved, or Data
can be imported and exported with these forms. The forms can then be attached to your
submission package, and the data in the forms will be automatically loaded into USPTO systems.
Q:
What software do I need to use USPTO's fillable PDF forms?
Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.0.8 or higher is required to use the EFS fillable forms. Other USPTO
fillable forms not designed for EFS can be filled and saved only with Adobe Acrobat Professional,
version 6 or higher.
Q:
How long does it take to submit an application via EFS-Web?
EFS-Web transmits common PDF file attachments to USPTO over the Internet. The time involved
will depend upon the speed of your Internet connection and the size of the PDF files you are
submitting, but the time required for submission is significantly less than you may have experienced
with our previous EFS solution.
Q:
Does EFS-Web have built-in safeguards that notify me if there's a problem with the file?
Yes. EFS-Web will automatically validate the file types and data entered on the web screens and
tell you before you submit your application if it meets USPTO standards.
Q:
I've submitted my application via EFS-Web, however, I did not receive an acknowledgement receipt.
What should I do?
Do not resubmit your application. Please contact the Electronic Business Center at
866-217-9197.
Q:
Will the electronic time and date stamp reflect the time zone I file in?
No. The filing date will be calculated based on the time of receipt in the Eastern Time zone.
Q:
Is EFS-Web integrated with Private and Public PAIR?
Yes. EFS-Web is integrated with Private and Public PAIR. By becoming a registered filer
(someone who has a Digital Certificate), EFS-Web submissions are available for viewing in
Private PAIR within hours instead of days or weeks.
Q:
How long will it take to be able to view documents I've submitted electronically in Private PAIR?
New applications generally will be available for viewing within an hour of the time from which
they are filed.
Q:
I make changes to my submission, why does my information not update/save?
Using navigation tabs in your browser instead of selecting the Continue function will result in
information failing to be updated or saved.
Q:
Do I have to attach a specification for a new utility submission?
No, but not including a PDF file with a document description of "specification" will lead to a
delay in the processing of your application.
