USPTO Extends Fast-Track Appeals Pilot Program to May 2028 with Accelerated Decision Timeline

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has officially extended the Fast-Track Appeals Pilot Program administered by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). Originally set to expire earlier, the program will now continue until May 6, 2028.

Under this pilot program, appellants involved in ex parte appeals can file a petition requesting expedited review by the PTAB. The initiative is designed to accelerate the appeals process, providing faster resolution of patent application disputes.

A key feature of the extension is the establishment of a target timeline for decisions. The PTAB will strive to reach a final decision on each fast-tracked ex parte appeal within four months from the date of acceptance into the program. This represents a significant improvement in the speed of appeal adjudication.

The USPTO plans to publish a formal notice of the program’s extension in the Federal Register in the near future, providing official confirmation and details of the continuation.

Applicants and practitioners seeking further information about the Fast-Track Appeals Pilot Program can visit the PTAB’s dedicated webpage, which outlines eligibility criteria, petition procedures, and program benefits.

The USPTO encourages stakeholders to stay informed about updates by subscribing to its email notifications through the subscription center on the agency’s website.

This extension reflects the USPTO’s ongoing commitment to improving patent examination and appeal processes, reducing pendency times, and enhancing service to the patent community.

For questions or assistance, the USPTO directs users to its contact resources available on its official website. The agency also advises recipients to ensure that email filters allow messages from its subscription service to avoid missing important communications.