How to Make a Freedom of Information Request
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was established in 1966. It allows the public access to the records of federal and state agencies with the exception of those records that are protected for reasons of national security. FOIA requests can take a long time to process and can be costly. They should be considered a "research tool of last resort."
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Instructions
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Determine whether the documents are available for release to the public before making the request. All documents aren't available to the public, especially those that pertain to ongoing criminal investigationns.
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Do the research before making a FOIA request. Understand that no federal agency is required or has the capacity to research or analyze documents on behalf of the individual making the request.
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Make the request for records in writing. Submit a letter, fax or email directly to the agency from which the records are sought.
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Describe in the request the records desired. Include as many details as possible to narrow the request so that the agency can expedite the search and respond quickly. Give complete names, dates and other specifics regarding the records.
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Include the full name, address and daytime phone number of the individual making the request.
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Make a statement in the request that indicates a willingness to pay incidental fees for the records. Be prepared to respond to an invoice for copying or postage for extensive documents.
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Check to see if the agency has an online FOIA reading room. Contact the National Archives for documents dated prior to 1976. (See Resources)
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Tips & Warnings
The federal government has no clearing house for FOIA requests. The public is expected to determine which agency holds the needed documents and make the request of that agency directly.
Avoid narrative requests. Use bulleted points and include only the necessary information. Explanations as to why the request is being made are unnecessary and will delay the request.
There are 9 Act of exemptions and three exclusions for special law enforcement. You may not obtain information from these sealed records.
