The Steps in  the Patenting Process:

1.  Patent Application Preparation

      Draft the patent application, including claims, description, drawings, and abstract.
2.  File Application
       Submit the application to the USPTO, either electronically (EFS-Web) or via mail.
3.  Initial Processing
        Receipt and Filing Date 
            USPTO assigns a filing date and application number.
        Initial Review
            Check for formal requirements (e.g., fees, format).
4.  Patent Application Publication
       Application is published 18 months from the earliest filing date, unless a non-publication request is made.
5.  Examination Process
     Assignment to Examiner
          An examiner is assigned to review the application.
      First Office Action
          Examiner issues a first office action, which may include rejections or requirements for amendments.
     Applicant Response
          Applicant responds to the office action, possibly amending the claims or providing arguments.
     Subsequent Office Actions
          Additional office actions may be issued, and responses are required until the examiner is satisfied.
6.  Notice of Allowance
     If the examiner is satisfied, they issue a Notice of Allowance, indicating that the application is allowed but not yet granted.
7.  Issue Fee Payment
     Applicant must pay the issue fee to have the patent granted.
8.  Patent Issuance
     Grant of Patent
           Once the issue fee is paid, the patent is granted, and a patent number is assigned.
     Patent Certificate
          A patent certificate is issued and published.
9.  Post-Issuance
     Maintenance Fees
          Patent maintenance fees must be paid at 4-year intervals to keep the patent in force.                           

          Maintenance fees are due at the 4th, 8th and 12th year anniversaries of the patent grant. 

Why get a patent

The Steps in the Patenting Process: