Federal FOIA Request Tool

Privacy & Security Notice

This tool operates entirely in your web browser. Your information is completely private:

No server transmission: All data stays on your device
No tracking: We don't collect, store, or monitor your information
No third parties: Your data is never shared
Complete control: Data clears when you close or refresh the page

You send the request yourself via email or postal mail. This tool only helps you create the letter.

About the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

FOIA is a federal law that gives you the right to access records from any federal agency. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens in the know about their government.

Your Rights Under FOIA

Request records from any federal executive branch agency
Receive a response within 20 business days (can be extended in certain circumstances)
Appeal denials administratively and in federal court
Request fee waivers if disclosure serves the public interest
Request expedited processing in urgent situations

Common Federal Agencies for FOIA Requests

Department of Justice (DOJ)
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
National Security Agency (NSA)
Department of Defense (DOD)
Department of State
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Social Security Administration (SSA)
Department of Education
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Official Resources:

Create Your FOIA Request

Federal Agency Name

The specific federal agency you're requesting records from. Visit FOIA.gov to find agency contact information.

Agency Component/Office (if known)

Many agencies have multiple components. Identifying the specific office can speed up your request.

Detailed Description of Records Requested

Be specific! Include: dates, names, document types, subject matter, case numbers, locations, etc. The more specific you are, the easier it is for the agency to locate your records. Example: "All email correspondence between [Name] and [Name] between January 1, 2023 and December 31, 2023 regarding [specific topic]."

Time Period

Narrowing the date range helps agencies search more efficiently.

Preferred Format for Records

Electronic format (PDF, email, digital files)

Paper copies

Any available format

Fee Waiver Request

I am requesting a fee waiver

You may request a fee waiver if disclosure is in the public interest and not primarily for commercial use.

Expedited Processing Request

I am requesting expedited processing

Expedited processing may be granted in urgent situations affecting person's life or safety, or when there is urgency to inform the public about government activity.

Maximum Fee You're Willing to Pay

The agency will contact you if fees exceed this amount before processing your request. Most requesters are charged search and duplication fees.

Your Contact Information

Your Full Name

Organization/Affiliation (if applicable)

Include if you're requesting on behalf of an organization or if it affects your fee category.

Your Email Address

Preferred method for agencies to send electronic records and correspondence.

Your Phone Number

Your Mailing Address

Required for official correspondence and paper records delivery.

Your FOIA Request Letter is Ready

Review the letter below carefully, then send it to the agency via their preferred method (usually email or online portal).

Next Steps: Submitting Your Request

Find the agency's FOIA contact: Visit FOIA.gov to find submission instructions
Submit your request: Many agencies accept requests via online portal, email, fax, or postal mail
Save a copy: Keep the letter and note the date you submitted it
Track your request: You should receive an acknowledgment with a tracking number within 10 days
Follow up: Agencies have 20 business days to respond (can be extended)
If denied: You have the right to appeal within the agency and may seek assistance from OGIS or file suit in federal court

Important Tips

Track your request: Keep the tracking number and all correspondence
Be patient: Complex requests can take months or even years
Consider narrowing: If told your request is too broad, work with the agency to narrow it
Know your rights: You can appeal denials and seek mediation through OGIS

Additional FOIA Resources

Official Government Resources

News Organizations & Transparency Groups

Understanding FOIA Exemptions

FOIA requires agencies to disclose records unless they fall under one of nine exemptions:

Classified national defense and foreign policy information
Internal agency personnel rules and practices
Information exempted by other laws
Confidential business information
Inter-agency or intra-agency communications (deliberative process)
Personal privacy
Law enforcement records
Financial institution information
Geological and geophysical information

Even if exemptions apply, agencies must release any reasonably segregable portions of records.