Generally, a request to change the address for correspondence must be in writing and filed using the trademark electronic filing system's Change Address or Representation (CAR) form. See TMEP §609.02(b). However, the USPTO will also construe the following as a written request to change the address for correspondence:

1. (1) Electronic filings. If a qualified U.S. attorney appears by being identified in the "Attorney Information" section in a trademark electronic filing system form as the representative on behalf of an applicant or registrant who is not already represented by another qualified U.S. attorney from a different firm, the USPTO will construe this as including a request to change the correspondence address to that of the attorney (however, the filing of an "associate power of attorney" or similar document does not change the correspondence address); or

   If a response to an Office action bearing a new address for the owner, or for the attorney of record if one is appointed, is submitted via the trademark electronic filing system, the USPTO will change the correspondence address to reflect this new address.

2. (2) Permitted paper filings. If an applicant or registrant files a properly signed power of attorney (see TMEP §605.01) designating a qualified U.S. attorney, the USPTO will change the correspondence address to that of the attorney named in the power, even if the applicant or registrant does not file a separate request to change the address. See TMEP §301.01 regarding the limited exceptions when paper submissions may be submitted.

37 C.F.R. §§2.18(a)(2), 2.19(a)(2).

In these situations, the USPTO will change the correspondence address without the need to file the electronic CAR form. In all other situations, a properly signed written request to change the correspondence address is required. 37 C.F.R. §2.18(c), 2.193(e)(9). See TMEP §609.02(b) regarding the requirements for a request to change the correspondence address.

See also TBMP §§117–117.08 for information about correspondence in Board proceedings.