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Federal Open Government Guide
Federal Open Government Guide
Introduction
The Federal Freedom of Information Act
How FOIA works
Filing a request
Which agencies are covered?
Asking for records
Do you actually have to file a request?
Who may use FOIA?
Try the informal approach first
Making a formal request: A simple letter is all you need
Paying fees
Fee waivers
Response times
Expedited processing and fast-tracking your request
Personally inspecting records
Appealing an initial denial
How to file a FOIA lawsuit
Exemptions to disclosure under FOIA
Major U.S. Supreme Court FOIA Cases
Sidebars
Federal Open Meetings Laws
The Privacy Act
Sample letters and agency addresses
Statutes
The Federal Freedom of Information Act
‹ Introduction
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How FOIA works ›
Freedom of Information
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