How to Write a Privacy Act Request Letter

The Privacy Act of 1974 gives individuals the right to access personal information collected by the federal government's Executive Branch. The law also states that people have the right to amend false information and the right to sue if the government violates the Privacy Act. The Central Intelligence Agency is the main information gathering part of the Executive branch and any Privacy Act request letter should be sent there.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Writing a Privacy Act Request Letter

1. Write a clear and simple letter to the Central Intelligence Agency requesting a copy of your personal records under the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. subsection 552, and the Privacy Act 5 U.S.C. section 552a.
2. Include all relevant biographic information and notarized statements when you write your request so the CIA can find you in their systems. Letters without full biographic information, citizenship status and a notarized statement of identity cannot be processed.
3. Attach a notarized statement releasing the information to your lawyer if you are requesting that a copy be sent to him or her. Letters without the properly notarized statement allowing the sharing of private information cannot be processed.
4. Review a sample Privacy Act request letter on the Freedom of Information Act Web site (see Resources below). Use this template to ensure you have provided all the information the CIA needs to process your request effectively.
5. Fax request letters to [phone]. Be sure to include all documents with your transmission.
6. Mail Privacy Act request letters to the Information and Privacy Coordinator, Central Intelligence Agency, Washington, D.C. 20505. Use proper postage when sending your letter.

Tips & Warnings

• Know that through the Privacy Act you can only request information about yourself. Exceptions are made if the other person is deceased or has granted you permission to access his or her information.