How long does a FOIA request take?

Under the law, all federal agencies are required to respond to a FOIA request within 20 business days, unless there are “unusual circumstances.” This time period generally begins when the request is received by the FOIA office of the Department of Justice component that maintains the records sought.

Why do FOIA requests take so long?

Factors include the number of pages involved in processing the request and the need for consultations with other federal agencies. Requests within each track are processed and responded to on a first-in/first-out basis: Expedited – requests that have been granted expedited processing.

How long do CBP FOIA requests take?

FOIA requests made to CBP could easily take up to 90 days to fulfill while similar simple EPA and DOC requests could take no more than 20 days to fulfill.

What are the exceptions to FOIA?

Exemption 1: Information that is classified to protect national security. Exemption 2: Information related solely to the internal personnel rules and practices of an agency. Exemption 3: Information that is prohibited from disclosure by another federal law.

How do I request FOIA with CBP?

You can submit a FOIA Request using the FOIAonline Request Form. FOIA Online is user-friendly, simply provide a clear and detailed description of the record(s) being requested. This information will help expedite the search process.

How many types of FOIA are there?

For purposes of fees only, the FOIA divides requesters into three categories: Commercial use requesters; • News media, educational, or scientific requesters; and • All other requesters.

How to make a FOIA request for information?

You can also search for information agencies have already posted online here on FOIA.gov. If the information you want is not publicly available, you can submit a FOIA request to the agency’s FOIA Office. The request simply must be in writing and reasonably describe the records you seek.

Where can I find the FOIA service center?

The agency’s FOIA Requester Service Center is available to assist you with any questions about the status of your request or any steps you can take to receive a quicker response.

Is there OIP guidance for agency FOIA regulations?

Nevertheless, OIP’s guidance on agency FOIA regulations stresses that including appeal procedures in agency FOIA regulations ensures that both agency personnel and requesters understand how and where to make their appeal and what to expect from the appeal process. See OIP Guidance for Agency FOIA Regulations (posted 2016, updated 7/11/2017).

When does the Department of Veterans Affairs accept FOIA Appeals?

Both the front of the envelope and the appeal letter should contain the notation: “Freedom of Information Act Appeal” The final VA decision will be made by the General Counsel or the Deputy General Counsel. Effective on September 19, 2011, the Department of Veterans Affairs will accept FOIA Appeals electronically.

You can also search for information agencies have already posted online here on FOIA.gov. If the information you want is not publicly available, you can submit a FOIA request to the agency’s FOIA Office. The request simply must be in writing and reasonably describe the records you seek.

How many agencies are subject to the FOIA?

There are currently one hundred agencies subject to the FOIA with several hundred offices that process FOIA requests. Your request will receive the quickest possible response if it is addressed directly to the FOIA office of the agency or agency component that you believe has the records you are seeking.

The agency’s FOIA Requester Service Center is available to assist you with any questions about the status of your request or any steps you can take to receive a quicker response.

What can I request under the Freedom of Information Act?

Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act (PA), you can request: Immigration records, whether your own or someone else’s with their permission; and Agency policies, data, communications, and other records.