Write a letter to the agency that you believe may have a file pertaining to you. Address your request to the Privacy Act Officer or head of the agency, such as "Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services." Be sure to write "Privacy Act Request" clearly on both the letter and the envelope.

Most agencies require some proof of identity before they will give you your records. Therefore, it is a good idea to enclose proof of identity (such as a copy of your driver's license) with your full name and address. Do not send the original documents. Remember to sign your request for information, since your signature is a form of identification. If an agency needs more proof of identity before releasing your files, it will let you know.

Give as much information as possible as to why you believe the agency has records about you. The agency should process your request or contact you for additional information.

Click HERE for an information request letter you can fill out online and print out

Click HERE for a list of public agencies

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