The FOIA does not require agencies to create new records or to conduct research, analyze data, or answer questions when responding to requests. You can also specify the format in which you wish to receive the records (for example, printed or electronic form). What can I ask for under the FOIA?Ī FOIA request can be made for any agency record. There is no specific form that must be used to make a request.
Is there a special form I have to use to make a FOIA request? See the list of federal agencies for details about how to make a request to each agency and any specific requirements for seeking certain records. Most federal agencies now accept FOIA requests electronically, including by web form, e-mail or fax. The request simply must be in writing and reasonably describe the records you seek. If the information you want is not publicly available, you can submit a FOIA request to the agency’s FOIA Office.
You can also search for information agencies have already posted online here on. You can find a lot of useful information on a range of topics on each agency’s website. Please review the YouTube Terms of Serviceīefore making a request, first look to see if the information you are interested in is already publicly available. Videos on this page are hosted on YouTube.
