█ What is FOIA?
The Freedom of Information Act (1966) gives any person the right to request access to federal agency records. Every state has its own equivalent. You don't need a lawyer. You don't need to explain why you want the documents. You just need to ask — in writing, to the right agency.
Journalists use FOIA to expose government corruption. Researchers use it to access classified studies. Ordinary citizens use it to find out what the government knows about them. It is one of the few legal tools that genuinely gives the people power over the government.
Journalists use FOIA to expose government corruption. Researchers use it to access classified studies. Ordinary citizens use it to find out what the government knows about them. It is one of the few legal tools that genuinely gives the people power over the government.
█ How to File a Federal FOIA Request
1
Identify the Right Agency
Figure out which federal agency holds the records you want. FBI records go to the FBI. CIA records go to the CIA. Each agency has its own FOIA office and its own portal.
2
Write Your Request
Be specific. Include dates, names, program names, or document types. The more specific you are, the faster and more complete your response will be. Use our template below as a starting point.
3
Submit via FOIA.gov or Agency Portal
Most agencies now accept electronic submissions. Go to FOIA.gov to find the right portal. Some agencies still require mail — check their FOIA page for instructions.
4
Track Your Request
You'll receive a tracking number. Agencies are legally required to respond within 20 business days — though most take longer. Follow up if you don't hear back. Use MuckRock to track publicly.
5
Appeal if Denied
If your request is denied or heavily redacted, you have the right to appeal administratively. If the appeal fails, you can sue in federal court. The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press has free legal resources.
█ Request Template
// COPY AND CUSTOMIZE THIS TEMPLATE
[Date]FOIA Officer
[Agency Name]
[Agency Address]
Re: Freedom of Information Act Request
Dear FOIA Officer,
Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552, I hereby request the following records:
[Describe the records you are requesting as specifically as possible. Include dates, names, programs, document types.]
I am willing to pay reasonable duplication fees up to $[amount]. If fees will exceed this amount, please notify me before processing.
I request a fee waiver on the grounds that disclosure of the requested information is in the public interest because it is likely to contribute significantly to public understanding of government operations.
If my request is denied in whole or part, I ask that you justify all deletions by reference to specific exemptions of the FOIA. I will also expect you to release all segregable portions of otherwise exempt material.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]