Is it possible to patent a business method?

Yes, it is possible to patent a business method in Washington. A business method patent protects the rights of the inventor to exclusively use a certain method in conducting business. Business method patents are also known as “process patents” or “software patents.” A business method must meet certain criteria to be patentable in Washington. First, the patent must be for an innovative and useful process or method. The process or method must also involve a “technology” or involve a “technical problem”. Additionally, the patent must be for something that is not obvious to someone with ordinary skill in the industry. The patent process can be lengthy and expensive, so it is important to ensure that your business method meets the criteria set by the United States Patent and Trademark Office before filing a patent application. An inventor must also be able to demonstrate that their business method won’t become outdated soon after patenting it. In Washington State, a business method patent provides the inventor with rights to use the method exclusively for a limited period of time. This period varies depending on the type of patent, but generally, it is 20 years from the date of filing. The inventor is the only one allowed to practice the business method during this time and can seek to prevent others from using it.

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