Tips for filing a Freedom of Information request

1. Date the letter

The agency has 15 days to respond to your request. The date on the letter starts the clock.

2. Address the letter to the head of the agency

Start at the top. In the case of elected school board officials with a hired superintendent, address the superintendent.

3. Mention the S.C. Freedom of Information Act

This is not required, but could make the agency take your request more seriously.

4. Be specific about what public records you want

Give certain dates and types.

5. Ask that copying fees be waived

They can still charge you, but you can ask to be notified of an estimated charge when they call to discuss the request.

6. List your phone number

Request that someone from the agency call you to schedule an appointment to look at the records or figure out another way to send them.

7. Send the letter through certified mail and request a return receipt

This is not required either, but if you expect any controversy over when the letter was received, this will help your case.

8. Save a copy of the letter

This will also safeguard you if there is any controversy over when the letter was sent.

Compiled with information from www.scpress.org