What Should I Say In My Appeal Letter?

Your appeal letter is your argument so it should be thorough and persuasive.

First, make clear that you are formally appealing the denial pursuant to FOIA and clearly designate the letter as a FOIA appeal. Provide a summary of your request and the response you received. Additionally, attach all relevant correspondence from the initial request letter to the final adverse determination that is of consequence. Be sure to provide current contact information and express a willingness to resolve the dispute. Also, make a demand that you expect a response within 20 days as required by law.

For greater ease in drafting your appeal letter, use the template FOIA appeals letter that is available on our website. It contains all the relevant language for you and allows you to tailor your arguments.

Next, you will present your policy and legal arguments establishing why you are entitled to what you requested. For specific help, see the sections in this guide that discuss your particular situation.  Also, be sure to review the FOIA appeal letter examples and FOIA appeal letter generator template in this guide before you begin drafting your appeal letter.