How to Order Records From the National Archives

If you want to order records from the National Archives, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Even the most seasoned family genealogist might have difficulty finding out how to order records from the National Archives. You can easily order records from the National Archives if you keep in mind some simple bits of information.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Determine what records you want to order from the National Archives. The National Archives has an enormous variety of records and historical documents available including images and photographs.

2. Order records online if online ordering is available for the records you want. Many popular family history records are available for online ordering, but a credit card is required.

3. Request a special paper form for records that aren't available for online ordering from the National Archives website.

4. Fill out special paper form completely and accurately.

5. Send special paper form and payment to the National Archives to fulfill your request.

6. Avoid having to order records by viewing records online. Don't be too disappointed if the records you want are not available online because only a select portion of all records at the National Archives are available online.

7. Plan a visit to the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Make sure you spend time preparing a specific list of what records you need.

8. Notify the National Archives before your visit to determine what areas your records are located in.

9. Visit a regional office in your state that is administered by the National Archives if you can't make the trip to Washington, D.C.

Tips & Warnings

• Confirm how much your records will cost before ordering. Visit the National Archives website for an up-to-date fee schedule.