FOIA Request Letter Template: Records Request and Filing Fees

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FOIA Request Letter Template

[Your Name]

Address: __________________________

City, State, ZIP: __________________________

Phone: __________________________

Email: __________________________

Date: __________________________

FOIA Officer

[Agency Name]

[Agency Address]

[City, State, ZIP]

Subject: Freedom of Information Act Request

Dear FOIA Officer,

Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request access to the following public records:

[Provide a clear and specific description of the documents or information requested. Example: “All email correspondence between the Department of Environmental Affairs and XYZ Corporation from January 1, 2023, to March 31, 2023, regarding water quality inspections.”]

I request that the records be provided in [preferred format, e.g., electronic PDF, printed copies]. If there are any fees for searching or copying these records, please inform me if the cost will exceed $[amount].

If my request is denied in whole or in part, please justify all deletions by referencing the specific exemptions in the FOIA. I also request that you release all segregable portions of otherwise exempt material.

Please provide a written acknowledgment of this request and an estimated date by which the requested records will be made available.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response within the time period required by law.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

Signature: __________________________

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FOIA Request Letter Template: Records Request and Filing Fees

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FOIA Request Letter Template — quick answers

Reviewed July 2026 Free download, PDF & DOCX

What is a FOIA Request Letter?

A FOIA Request Letter is a formal written request submitted to a government agency asking for access to public records under the Freedom of Information Act. It ensures that the request is clear, legally valid, and directed to the appropriate authority.

Why is a FOIA Request Letter important?

It establishes a formal record of your request, helps ensure timely compliance by the agency, and provides you with legal standing if the agency fails to respond.

When should you use a FOIA Request Letter?

Use this letter whenever you need access to government-held information, such as agency policies, meeting records, contracts, or data relevant to public interest, research, or legal matters.

What should a FOIA Request Letter include?

It should include your full contact details, a clear description of the records requested, preferred delivery format, and a statement citing the Freedom of Information Act.

Can anyone file a FOIA request?

Yes. In most jurisdictions, any individual or organization may file a FOIA request, although some records may be restricted due to privacy or national security concerns.