The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that establishes the public's right to request existing records from government agencies. Requests for access to records are processed only under the FOIA. The FOIA governs how requests will be processed within the Army. Requests under the FOIA are only for agency "records." The records must exist and be in the possession and control of the agency in order to be subject to the requirements under the FOIA.
See
Frequently Asked Questions for more detailed information.
Requesting a FOIA
Your request for documents needs to be in writing by mail, email, fax or online.
Each FOIA request needs to contain the following information:
- Requestor’s name
- Address
- Telephone number
- Complete description of the records requested, i.e., contract information, project name, type of document, title, subject area, date or event surrounding the event. Please be as specific as possible.
Alaska District is now scanning all documents in .pdf format. If you would like a paper copy, you will need to state that in your request.
State your willingness to pay for the request. This will include a per page copy fee, and search and review charges. Please look at the regulations for further information.
FOIA Regulations and Other Useful Sites
FOIA Statute - 5 U.S.C. § 552
Department of Defense (DOD) FOIA Program - Links directly to the Department of Defense site for a complete view of the DoD FOIA program.
Department of the Army FOIA Program - Links directly to the Government Printing Office’s Web site for a complete view of the Army’s FOIA program.
Department of Defense (DOD) FOIA program fee schedule
The Privacy Act of 1974, 5 U.S.C. § 552a, as amended - Full text of act provided at the Department of Justice Web site.
Overview of the Privacy Act of 1974 - Overview provided by the Department of Justice and is linked directly to their Web site.
Department of Justice/FOIA Website
A Citizen's Guide to Request Army Records Under FOIA
Army FOIA Electronic Reading Room