For publication in the Federal Register of June 24, 2026, having an effective of August 13, 2026, the USPTO is issuing a final rule to significantly tighten its review of petitions based on “unintentional delay.” For petitions filed on or after August 13, 2026, the USPTO will require additional evidentiary support—and impose higher fees—for petitions filed more than one year after a missed deadline, replacing the prior two-year threshold.
