Provisional Patent Application

What is a provisional patent application?

A Provisional Patent Application (PPA) is a quick, easy and cost-effective way to get your invention on file with the US Patent & Trademark Office. A PPA enables you to establish a priority filing date for your patent, and provides 12 months of protection to further develop, market, or prepare a Utility Application. Once you file a PPA, a 12-month clock starts in which a Utility patent application must be filed before the end of the 12-month provisional period. A provisional application is not examined by the USPTO and does not automatically convert to a non-provisional patent.

What is a non-provisional patent?

The non-provisional patent is what is traditionally thought of as the “full” patent. It can be of either a “utility” or a “design” variety, and it establishes the filing date and begins the USPTO’s patent review process. It is the only type of application that will result in the issuance of a patent, whereas, a provisional patent application acts as a placeholder for the priority date and allows you to retain “patent pending” status for your invention.

Why is a patent application important?

Protects Your Idea

Patents protect your idea by giving you the right to exclude others from making, using or selling your idea as their own. It also provides some competitive advantage or monopoly on your invention for the length of the patent term. Without patent protection, your idea or invention can be quickly replicated and reproduced without your consent.

Shows Commitment

Taking steps to protect your idea shows companies that you have a higher level of commitment and are serious about the idea. Protecting an idea is part of the licensing process and filing a provisional patent application is a step in the right direction.

What is the PPA process?

InventionHome will help you compile information about your invention, which is then sent to an independent patent attorney/agent. The patent attorney/agent will file the application electronically with the US Patent & Trademark Office. Once your PPA is filed with the USPTO, you will receive a filing receipt electronically and your application will be effective. InventionHome is not a law firm and is not engaged in the practice of law. We do not and can not practice before the US patent office and cannot offer legal consultation, advice or opinions.