On October 27, 2025, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) launched the Streamlined Claim Set Pilot Program, a new initiative designed to speed up patent examination and reduce the USPTO’s backlog. The program gives special status to patent applications that use simplified claim sets. By focusing on shorter claim sets, the USPTO hopes to shorten wait times and improve the overall quality of examination.
The Streamlined Claim Set Pilot Program is part of the USPTO’s ongoing effort to make patent processing more efficient. It tests whether limiting the number of claims in a patent application can reduce pendency while maintaining high-quality review standards. Under the program, eligible patent applications will be moved to the front of the line for examination until the first Office Action is issued. After that, the application will return to normal examination status. By focusing on concise claim sets, the USPTO aims to direct examiner resources toward applications that can be reviewed more efficiently.
To qualify for the Streamlined Claim Set Pilot Program, applicants must file a petition to make special for an eligible utility patent application filed before October 27, 2025. The program only applies to original, non-reissue, non-continuing utility applications filed under 35 U.S.C. §111(a). Continuation, divisional, reissue, and national stage (PCT) applications under 35 U.S.C. §371 are not eligible. The claim set is key. Each application must include no more than one independent claim, no more than ten total claims, and no multiple dependent claims.
The USPTO will accept petitions for one year, or until each Technology Center accepts around 200 qualifying applications, whichever comes first. If some Technology Centers reach their limits faster than others, the USPTO may close participation early. To ensure transparency, the USPTO will regularly publish data showing how many petitions were filed and accepted in each Technology Center.
For applicants willing to simplify their claim sets, this program offers a real chance to accelerate patent examination. Many could receive a first Office Action months or even years sooner than under standard processing. If you want to learn how to expedite the examination of your patent application, contact My Patent Guys at colton@mypatentguys.com. Our team can help you determine if your application qualifies for this USPTO pilot program and guide you through the petition process.