Michael J. Foycik Jr., Esq.

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How to patent an idea? There are several good approaches, as follows. Easiest: file a Provisional patent application ("PPA"). Advantages: low cost, low government fee, few formalities, true "patent pending" status, priority rights for any later-filed utility or PCT applications filed within one year. No examination occurs.

How to file a Provisional patent application (PPA): service fee is relatively low and very affordable; call or email for a quote for a specific invention idea.

Next up: file a Design patent application. Yes, it protects just the appearance of the inventive product or design, but costs much less than a utility patent application, has lower government filing fees, and often has better chances of success with the US Patent Office. Call or email for a price quote for a specific inventive idea, there is no charge or obligation.

Or, get a utility patent application on your idea. The Utility patent application is sometimes referred to as a regular application. It costs about three or four times what a provisional application costs, but should still be relatively affordable. It does require formal drawings, and will be examined by the patent office, possibly requiring a response. The chances of success are unpredictable, and vary depending on the invention itself and the specific examiner who examines it for the US Patent Office. Call for a price quote for a specific inventive idea, there is no risk or obligation.

Finally, there is the PCT application, sometimes called an international application. It is more expensive, has a fairly large government filing fee, but gives an extended period of time in which to select later-filed national stage applications. This subject is somewhat complex, but we would be happy to explain it in more detail when you call.

The author is a patent attorney with over 28 years experience in patents and trademarks. For further information, please email at IP1lwyr@gmail.com, or call at 877-654-3336.