Patent Help 101

**USPTO Resources for Patent Assistance**

**Assignment Center:** This hub supports you in the transfer of patent or trademark ownership or updating the registration details. For more information, reach out via email at AssignmentCenter@uspto.gov or by calling 800-972-6382.

**Inventors Assistance Center (IAC):** Discover valuable guidance and information on patent applications here. The center is ready to help answer questions related to patent examination policies, necessary formats, and required forms. Contact them toll-free at 800-786-9199, locally at 571-272-1000, or via TTY/TDD at 800-877-8339.

**Patent Pro Bono Program:** This initiative aids financially under-resourced individual inventors and small businesses by pairing them with volunteer attorneys. Requirements include meeting income eligibility, possessing a reasonable understanding of the patent system, and being able to describe the invention. Learn more by emailing probono@uspto.gov.

**Patent Center:** The official site supports electronic filing and management of your patent applications. 

**Application Assistance Unit (AAU):** Get help with questions concerning pre- and post-examination processing of patent applications. Contact them at 888-786-0101 or via email at HelpAAU@uspto.gov.

**Patent Electronic Business Center (EBC):** Provides guidance on electronic filing submissions and reviewing patent applications. It supports the usage of the Electronic Filing System (EFS-Web) and the Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR).

**Research Assistance through Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRC):** Offers support with patent searches while not providing legal advice.

**Steps for Inventors Seeking Patent Help:**

1. **Explore the Patent Pro Bono Program:** Visit both USPTO and Patent Pro Bono Program websites. Watch informative videos to gain a thorough understanding of the program.

2. **Complete Necessary Training:** Enroll in and complete the “Basic Patent Training for Independent Inventors and Small Businesses” course.

3. **Apply for Assistance:** Fill out an application for the pro bono program or any another assistance you need.

4. **Consider Legal Advice if Required:** For complex legal matters related to your patent application, consider hiring legal advisors such as www.neweglandip.com for professional advice.

By leveraging these resources effectively, you can better navigate the patent application process and improve your chances of successfully filing your patent.