Freedom of Information Act

The basic function of the Freedom of Information Act is to ensure informed citizens, vital to the functioning of a democratic society.

What is FOIA?

Since 1967, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) has provided the public the right to request access to records from any federal agency. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens in the know about their government. Federal agencies are required to disclose any information requested under the FOIA unless it falls under one of nine exemptions which protect interests such as personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement.

Before filing a FOIA request, you'll need to know which federal agency holds your information, and you'll need to make sure the information isn't already publicly online.

There will be a Custodian of Records within the federal agency you're questioning- this is who you should send your request to. Use the internet to find them. 

If your information isn't online and can't be obtained through an online FOIA portal, use the templates below to craft your request.