MAKING A FOIA REQUEST

FOIA Introduction Making A Request Reading Room Reference Guides Annual Reports

1. a request for records shall be made in writing, signed by the person making the request, and stating that it is made pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. 552;
   
   
2. the request shall identify whether the requester is an educational institution, non-commercial scientific institution or representative of the news media subject to fee provision described in Section 1.7;
   
   
3. the request must be addressed to the component that maintains the record. Both the envelope and the request itself should be clearly marked "Freedom of Information Act Request";
   
   
4. the request must reasonably describe the records;
   
   
5. the request must set forth an address where the person making the request wants to be notified about whether or not the request will be granted;
   
   
6. the request must state whether the requester wishes to inspect the records or desires to have a copy made and furnished without first inspecting them;
   
   
7. the request must state a firm agreement of the requester to pay the fees for duplication, search and/or review as may ultimately be determined in accordance with Section 1.7 or request that such fees be reduced or waived and state the justification for such request.

Where to File a Request

Freedom of Information Act Request
U. S. Secret Service
950 H Street, N. W.
Suite 3000
Washington, DC 20001