How to Write A Letter To Congress

Getting your voice heard is an amazing feeling and accomplishment. If you want to write a letter to your local congressman or government - you want to make sure you do it correctly. Some people believe that government and congress pay no attention to the voices out there, but that is a false idea. They are more than willing to hear what you have to say.

You cannot simply write a letter, send it off in the mail, and expect a response instantly. If your going to write a letter to congress, here are some easy tips, steps and things you should know first.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start off small. You might not be able to get your point across to higher government overnight. It's best if you contact your LOCAL House Representative of the Congressional District or even senators in your local government. It also helps personalize your letter to them. Doing this can in return get your opinion across and noticed much faster.

2. Keep your letter simple, blunt, and understandable. Too often people write a letter to congress and address many topics and concerns that are too wordy, long, and off-topic. A typed one page letter is the best. Stay on topic, stay focused and remember to make your statement as clear as possible.

3. You should make sure your letter is easy to follow. The Political Action Committees suggest that you write a letter in the form of three-paragraphed letter.
   
   You should start off with why you are writing and who you are. State your credentials, and make sure to give a return address. Provide detail, statements and facts with intelligence, not emotion. Be specific on the topic and state the bill or facts in question that you are referring to. Close by stating what action you would like to be taken on the matter. Whether it's a petition or vote - always be polite.

4. Make sure you address your letter the correct way and to the correct people. Most letters written to government and congress are something like this:
   
   To Your Representative:
   
   The Honorable (full name)
   (Room #) (Name) House Office Building
   United States House of Representatives
   Washington, DC 20515

Tips & Warnings

• Be polite always.
• Don't write with emotion. Hold back your personal feelings on the matter.
• Get as many factual statements in as possible.
• Always name who you are. Anonymous letters never go anywhere.
• Never threaten or be rude.

Resources

• US Supreme Court Address
• Find Any Congress Address

[lawyerlarry]

on 4/29/2009 Absolutely right -- Congress wants to hear from us! 5*s