Making a FOIA Request

Information by State  Print version   FOIA Processing Time Current FOIA processing time for routine FOIA requests is 30 days and 45 days for complex FOIA requests. Helpful Links   Frequently Requested Materials   E-FOIA Reading Room   Making a FOIA Request   Check Status of On-Line FOIA Request   FOIA Reference Guide   FOIA Reference Materials   FOIA Requester Service Centers and Public Liaisons   FOIA Appeals   FOIA Annual Reports   The HUD FOIA Improvement Plan   Major Information Systems

There are a several things you should know about making a FOIA request.

First, if the document you want is located in a particular field office, please submit your request directly to the appropriate FOIA Requester Service Center.

Second, you must be fairly specific in what you request. Remember, FOIA only provides documents. It doesn't answer questions.

Third, you must agree to pay fees for various costs related to providing the requested records.

If you want to submit a FOIA request to HUD Headquarters, just click on the words "submit a FOIA request" below and complete the form that will pop up. But before you do this, take a minute to search the home page to see if the information you seek already is available.

Can't find what you're looking for? Then Submit a FOIA request. Remember, by submitting a FOIA request you are agreeing to pay the necessary fees. Be sure to fill out the form including your daytime telephone number, mailing address and e-mail address.

HUD processes requests using multi-track processing, which allows the Department to process requests on a first-in/first-out basis, within each track.

HUD may expedite your request or appeal if we determine that you have a compelling need for the records or in other cases as determined by the Department. If HUD grants your request for expedited processing, HUD will give your request or appeal priority and will process it as soon as practical.

If you'd like more information about the Freedom of Information Act, you can e-mail the Freedom of Information Officer, or you may reference the HUD FOIA Regulations at 24 CFR pt. 15 (2001).

By the way, we will post frequently requested information on HUD's home page. That will make it easier for you to get - and HUD to give you - the information you need.