A slash signature (S-signature) is a simple-to-implement electronic signature that you can use to sign documents submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office in lieu of a handwritten signature. The slash signature is your name inserted between forward slash marks. Your slash signature would be /[your name]/. That’s it. It’s so simple. The slash signature is preferred instead of a handwritten signature because it makes the process much simpler. You don’t need to print, sign, scan, or email back any document.
What USPTO rule allows for S-signatures?
Under 37 CFR 1.4(d), the USPTO has specified that “correspondence being filed in the Office … may be S-signature signed instead of being personally signed.”
When can an S-signature be used?
You can use an S-signature whenever submitting documents with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
What are the examples of a proper S-signature?
If you aren’t a patent attorney, then the preferred slash signature is simply your name between two forward slashes.
Example: /John Smith/
If you are a patent attorney, then the following are preferred slash signatures:
Example 1: /John T. Smith, Reg. #999999/
Example 2: /John T. Smith/ Reg. #999999
Here is a pdf of other examples. I’d recommend keeping it simple and using the preferred method.
Rules for Using Slash Signatures
To ensure your slash signature is valid:
- Format: Always enclose your name in forward slashes (e.g., /Your Name/).
- Consistency: The name in the slash signature must match your legal name or the name you are authorized to use for the submission.
- Electronic Use: Slash signatures are only valid for electronically submitted documents.
- Role-Specific: You cannot sign a document for someone else. You can only sign for yourself.
Important Caution: Avoid Signing for Others
While slash signatures are easy to use, they come with an important responsibility: never sign on behalf of another person. Misusing this method by signing for someone else can invalidate your patent.