Would you like to have your ancestor’s application for a Social Security Card (called an SS-5), WWII alien registration form, or other federal records that aren’t already publicly available? You must send a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the right agency. Here’s an outline of a four-step process.
1. Identify the Federal Genealogy Record
You’ll need to know the agency that created it, what the record is, when and why it was made, and the name of the person in question. Then, see if the record is already on a website such as FamilySearch, Ancestry.com, or microfilm at a library or archives.
2. Locate the Right FOIA Office
Go to FOIA’s directory, https://www.foia.gov/agency-search.html, and type in the name of the agency that created and has custody of your selected record. The resulting page will give you basics about the agency, along with the name and contact details of the FOIA officer. It also gives tips on making a request and links to more information.
3. Write and Send Your Request
The agency might have a fill-in-the-blank sample letter you can use (such as the Management) or an online form. Give as much information as you can to identify the record. Specify how you wish to receive it—by mail, fax, or email. Please note that some agencies may charge you a fee. Carefully follow all instructions, such as proving the person named in the record is dead (or that he was born more than 100 years ago).
4. Wait
You can contact the FOIA officer to check on the progress of your request. The request instructions also will tell you what to do if you get turned down, which might include appealing the decision.
Remember, states have their own request processes for their records and laws governing records access. For more information, go to https://www.nfoic.org/state-freedom-of-information-laws/ and select the state you need.
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