IRS & agencies
How do I send a FOIA request by mail?
Updated · By the Certified Letter Online team
Write a letter to the agency's FOIA office that says it's a request under the Freedom of Information Act, reasonably describes the records you want, states the format you'd like and how much you're willing to pay in fees, and gives your contact details. Federal agencies must decide whether to comply within 20 working days of receiving a request (extendable by 10 working days in unusual circumstances), so sending it Certified with return receipt fixes the date the clock started.
Most agencies also accept requests online through FOIA.gov or their own portals. State public records laws work similarly but have their own deadlines.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Where | The FOIA office of the agency that has the records (see FOIA.gov) |
| What | A request that reasonably describes the records |
| Agency decision | 20 working days after receipt |
| Extension | Up to 10 more working days in unusual circumstances, by written notice |
| Fees | Say the maximum you'll pay, or ask for a fee waiver |
| Proof | Certified receipt and return receipt show the receipt date |
Write a request that gets results
- Name the records as precisely as you can: dates, offices, subjects, file numbers.
- Ask for electronic copies if you prefer.
- Mark the envelope and letter "FOIA Request". Our FOIA request template does this.
Notes
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, a legal aid office or a licensed attorney in your state can tell you what applies.
Quick answers
Is FOIA for federal agencies only?
Yes. State and local agencies are covered by state public records laws, which you can also use by mail.
What if the agency misses the deadline?
You can follow up, contact the agency's FOIA Public Liaison, and in some cases appeal or go to court. Your return receipt shows when the clock started.
Can I request my own records?
Yes. For records about you, also mention the Privacy Act and include identity verification the agency requires.
What to do next
Fill in the FOIA request and we'll mail it Certified with return receipt for $17.99, so you know the day the 20-day clock started.
Send my FOIA requestSources
Checked: . General information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change: confirm current values at the official links above.