Understanding DOE Demand Letters: How to Protect Your Title Rights in iEdison
- Dominique Haynes
- Nov 14
- 1 min read
Federal contractors and grantees receiving funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are increasingly receiving demand letters for failing to comply with Bayh-Dole Act invention reporting requirements in a timely manner. These communications often request that the recipient convey title to the government—a serious consequence that can be avoided with proper oversight and timely action in iEdison.
What Triggers a DOE Demand Letter?
DOE demand letters typically follow one of two scenarios:
Title Not Elected Within Two Years: Under the Bayh-Dole Act, contractors must elect title to subject inventions within two years of disclosure. Failure to meet this deadline allows the government to request full ownership.
Inaction in iEdison: Many organizations simply forget to update the invention record or file a justified extension request, especially during periods of staff turnover, lack of training, or funding lapses.
The Risk: Loss of Ownership
Demand letters from DOE state that the recipient must convey title to the government unless action is taken immediately. This can lead to:
Loss of commercial rights
Disruption of tech transfer opportunities
Long-term funding complications
How to Stay Compliant
To avoid these issues:
Monitor invention records regularly
File elections promptly in iEdison
Request extensions with substantive justification if needed
Close the loop with confirmatory licenses and utilization reports
Need Help?
At Invention Reporting Consultants, we help clients resolve pending notifications, submit proper elections, and file extensions before deadlines pass. Our team supports small businesses, universities, and pharma companies to retain control of their IP and stay compliant with federal guidelines.
