How to Access Free Public Records

Today, many official documents related to diverse issues are available to the public without charge from local, state or federal government offices and other organizations. Acquiring them is often just a matter of knowing how to gain access.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Know the law. Make sure you have the right to the records you're looking for. If there is any ambiguity about whether the records are public, do research before making your request so that the office can't use a loophole to deny you the information.
2. Go to the source. Offices can charge for faxing, mailing or even emailing records, but they cannot charge for viewing. Visit the office where the records are housed for a free look.
3. Bring your press pass. If you are a journalist, you may get quicker access to public records. If not, make your case for accessing any public records clear when you visit the office.
4. Avoid difficult individuals. Some people in government or business offices are experienced at stonewalling the public. You might find you'll get better access by going over the head of an intransigent clerical worker, or to another office that may hold applicable records.
5. Make a public records request. In local government, it's often called a right-to-know letter. If you're dealing with a federal agency, you'll want to file a Freedom of Information Act request. Many offices is stock forms for viewing public records. File your request correctly, or it may be denied.