Free FOIA & Public Records Request Generator
Generate formal FOIA and public records requests with proper legal citations for federal, state, or local government agencies. Create professional open records request letters instantly. Perfect for journalists, researchers, citizens, and attorneys.
Our free FOIA request generator creates professionally formatted public records requests for any government agency. Whether you need federal FOIA requests, state open records requests, or local municipal records, our AI tool generates legally compliant request letters with proper citations to the Freedom of Information Act and state sunshine laws.
Be specific about what records you need: types of documents, date ranges, people involved, and subject matter.
How to Use This Free FOIA Request Generator
- Describe the records you want to request in detail - include dates, names, and specific document types
- Select the request type - Federal FOIA, state open records, or local/municipal
- Choose the record category - emails, contracts, financial records, permits, etc.
- Generate your request - our AI creates a properly formatted letter with legal citations
- Download and send - copy or download the letter and submit it to the appropriate agency
Frequently Asked Questions About Public Records Requests
What is a public records request?
A public records request is a formal written request to a government agency for access to documents and records. Under FOIA (federal) and state open records laws, most government records are public and must be provided upon request. This includes emails, contracts, meeting minutes, financial records, permits, and more.
What is the difference between FOIA and state open records laws?
FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) applies to federal agencies like the FBI, IRS, and federal departments. Each state has its own open records law with different names (Sunshine Law, Public Records Act, Open Records Act) and requirements. Local governments typically follow state law or have their own ordinances.
How long does it take to get public records?
Response times vary by jurisdiction. Federal FOIA requires an initial response within 20 business days. State laws typically require responses within 3-30 days depending on the state. Complex requests may take longer, and agencies must provide estimated completion dates.
Can my public records request be denied?
Some records are exempt from disclosure, including national security information, personal privacy matters, ongoing law enforcement investigations, trade secrets, and attorney-client privileged communications. If denied, you typically have the right to appeal the decision.
How do I write an effective FOIA request?
An effective FOIA request should be specific about what records you want, include date ranges, name relevant people or departments, and cite the applicable law. Our free FOIA request generator helps you create properly formatted requests with all required elements.
Build a public-facing AI agent for your citizens
- Embed a chatbot on your website that answers from official documents
- Upload ordinances, agendas, and minutes to one searchable archive
- Citizens get instant answers with citations to source documents
