How to Record a Patent Assignment with the USPTO
Transfer ownership properly. An unrecorded assignment creates chain-of-title defects that jeopardise enforcement, licensing, and sale.
Use the iInvent Patent Assignment Agreement template as a starting point. The signed document must contain:
- Names of assignor (seller/transferor) and assignee (buyer/recipient)
- Identification of the patent or application (patent number or application number)
- Clear statement of the rights being transferred
- Consideration (what the assignee is paying)
- Signatures of the assignor(s) and date
- Document saved as PDF
File through the USPTO's Electronic Patent Assignment System:
- Go to epas.uspto.gov and log in (or create account)
- Upload the signed assignment document (PDF)
- Enter the patent or application number(s) covered
- Enter names and addresses of assignor and assignee
- Pay recording fee ($0 for most electronic recordings)
- Submit
The USPTO issues a reel/frame number confirming the recording. The assignment appears on the public Assignment database (assignment.uspto.gov) within 1–2 weeks.
If the patent family includes applications or grants at other offices, record the assignment separately at each one:
- Record at EPO (if European patent)
- Record at CNIPA (if Chinese patent)
- Record at JPO, KIPO, UKIPO, and other offices as applicable
- Confirm all recordings are complete — verify on each office's public register
Tip: Each national office has its own assignment recording procedure and forms. Your local patent attorney or agent at each office can handle this for you.
Not Recording the Assignment
An unrecorded assignment is valid between the parties but is not effective against subsequent purchasers. If the original assignor sells the same patent to a third party who records first, the third party may prevail — even though you purchased first.
Incomplete Assignment Document
Missing patent numbers, unsigned documents, or vague rights descriptions create recording defects that the USPTO may reject. Use a proper assignment template and ensure all fields are complete.
Forgetting International Offices
Recording at the USPTO only covers the US patent. If the patent family includes grants or pending applications at the EPO, CNIPA, JPO, or other offices, you must record separately at each. An unrecorded international assignment creates enforcement problems in those jurisdictions.
Assignment Recorded Successfully.
The new owner is now on the public record. The assignment will appear on assignment.uspto.gov within 1–2 weeks. Keep the reel/frame confirmation number for your records.
Visual companion to the Article
How to Record a Patent Assignment with the USPTO