Don’t know where to start with drafting a FOI request?
Check out these resources.
Template FOIA Language
Dear [keeper of records],
Pursuant to the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act 1-200 et seq., I am requesting access to the following records:
bullet point list of what you're requesting (be as specific as possible)
don't forget a time range
one line for each item
use hyperlinks to forms, news stories, other resources as examples if warranted
ask for attachments in email communications
I am requesting these records in electronic format.
This information is not being sought for commercial purposes. As a member of the news media, I am seeking disclosure of these records for the purposes of informing the public on [topic you're seeking records on]. I therefore asked that any fees associated with this request be waived, as disclosure of the requested information is in the public's interest. If this is not possible, I request to be informed in advanced if fees associated with this request exceed $15.
The Connecticut Freedom of Information Act requires a response within four business days. If processing any part of this request will take longer, please provide a time frame for when I can expect to receive records. I am willing to receive responsive records in batches.
If any part of this request is denied, please cite specific exemptions in each instance where access to records is being denied which you feel justifies the refusal to release information. Please also notify me of appeal procedures available under the law.
Thank you for your time and attention to this request.
Opposite, you’ll find the template I use for requesting information under Connecticut’s Freedom of Information Act.
While this is tailored to Connecticut, I use nearly identical language for requests to other state agencies and to federal agencies.
You can plug and play this template to write your own request.
Don’t forget to:
Update the statute to the appropriate jurisdiction
Specify whether you want to inspect records in-person, or receive physical or electronic records
Note that depending on the records you’re requesting, you may not have an option. Also note that sometimes electronic records may be cheaper because some jurisdictions (including Connecticut) don’t charge copying fees for them
Update the response time to the jurisdiction your requesting records from
As a media member, I always ask for fees to be waived. If you’re not news media, you may not be able to ask for this. However, some jurisdictions also allow for other appeals to waive records.
I set $15 as the amount of fees I’m willing to be paid without notification prior to a request being processed. You can set this number at a level you’re comfortable with. Some jurisdictions will require pre-payment if fees exceed a certain level.
Do your research prior to filing a request to make sure you’re asking for records from the proper agency and the records you are asking for are not exempt.
Other Resources
National Freedom of Information Coalition
The NFOIC has sample FOI language for all 50 states
Federal Agency Websites
If you’re looking for federal information, many agency websites have a page that provides tips on how to accurately file an FOI
Example: Department of Treasury