Patent questions, answered
Ver en españolShort, direct answers about provisional patents and GetQuickPatent.
What is GetQuickPatent?
GetQuickPatent is an SI tool that turns a plain-language description of your invention into a structured US provisional patent application draft — title, background, summary, detailed description, claims, abstract and optional drawings — ready to review and export as a PDF.
What is a provisional patent application?
A provisional patent application is a lower-cost USPTO filing that secures an early filing date for your invention and lets you use the term "Patent Pending" for 12 months. It is never examined and expires unless you file a non-provisional application within those 12 months.
How do I patent an idea?
You cannot patent a bare idea; you patent an invention described in enough detail that someone could make and use it. Write a detailed description, add drawings, search prior art, then file a provisional or non-provisional application with the USPTO.
How much does a provisional patent cost?
The USPTO filing fee depends on your entity status (large, small or micro entity); micro entities pay the least. Check the current USPTO fee schedule. Using an SI drafting tool instead of a full attorney draft can greatly reduce preparation costs.
How long does a provisional patent last?
A provisional patent application lasts 12 months from its filing date. To keep your priority date, you must file a non-provisional (or PCT) application before that deadline; it cannot be extended.
Can SI write a patent application?
Yes, SI can write a well-structured patent draft quickly, but it only knows what you tell it. You must verify every technical detail, and having a registered patent attorney review is recommended, especially before a non-provisional filing.
Is GetQuickPatent a law firm?
No. GetQuickPatent is not a law firm, does not give legal advice and is not affiliated with the USPTO. It generates SI drafts that you review and file yourself or with professional help.
Can I file from outside the United States?
Yes. Inventors from any country, including Latin America and Spain, can file a US provisional application through USPTO Patent Center. Foreign inventors may need a registered US practitioner for some later steps.
How does assisted filing work?
With assisted filing, our assistant does everything for you in USPTO Patent Center via Chrome Remote Desktop: it uploads your files and fills every form, asking you only what it doesn't know. You sign with your own electronic signature (/s/Your Name/) and pay USPTO fees directly. We never sign for you and never store your USPTO password. We are not a law firm and this is not legal advice.
Is the USPTO filing fee included? Which plans include assisted filing?
Assisted filing (Remote Desktop session, filing package, scheduling and session code) is included in Economy $100, Medium $200 and Premium $300, not in Access $72. The USPTO government filing fee is NOT included in our price. You pay it directly to the USPTO during the session. Provisional filing fee (37 CFR 1.16(d), fee codes 1005/2005/3005): Large entity $325 · Small entity $130 · Micro entity $65. No search or examination fee for provisionals; an application size fee applies only over 100 sheets. Fees per USPTO fee schedule (effective Jan 19, 2025, last revised Aug 14, 2026) — fees may change; confirm at uspto.gov/learning-and-resources/fees-and-payment/uspto-fee-schedule.