Five Steps to File a FOIA Request
There are five steps to file a FOIA request at the Department of Homeland Security.
STEP 1: Determine Record
Determine the exact record you seek. These could be documents, memos, emails, voice messages, or video.
STEP 2: Check Public Domain
Check available resources such as the internet or libraries to determine whether the record already exists in the public domain.
STEP 3: Determine Which Part of DHS has the Record
Narrow down as best as possible the location (office or component) in which you think the record might exist.
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STEP 4: Complete Information
Draft a letter completing all required fields including:
- Name
- Address or email address
- Phone if you would like to receive calls regarding the processing of your request
- Brief description of records sought
- Fee category
- Expedited treatment
- Provide perjury statement and signature or notary if seeking records that contain Personal information about yourself
- Provide a third party release statement if seeking personal records on another person.
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STEP 5: Send the FOIA
You may mail, email, or fax your FOIA to your identified component. Or submit a form online.
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Last Published Date:
February 17, 2016