Requirements for a valid FOIA request
A valid request must meet the following minimum requirements:
1. The request must be submitted in writing or by fax.
(a) Verbal (telephone) requests will NOT be honored.
(c) Must clearly indicate that it is a request made under the Freedom of Information Act
(Title 5 U.S.C 552) or the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552 a).
(d) Include your telephone number and complete postal service mailing address on your request.
2. The request must contain a reasonable description of the particular records or documents requested to enable government personnel to locate or identify the particular records or documents with a reasonable amount of effort. Under the FOIA/PA, requestors must ask for specific records or documents rather than information. In addition, avoid structuring your request in such a way that requires a response to question(s). FOIA does not require agencies to answer questions creatively, venture opinions or conduct independent inquiries to satisfy questions from the public.
3. The request must contain a clear statement of the requestor's willingness to pay all assessable processing fees or those up to a specified amount. If the requester believes that fees should be waived, written justification must be provided.
Note: If request contains the statement "We are willing to accept clearly releasable portions of the requested document(s)," you may receive a response in a few days rather than weeks. For example, a contract can be released immediately if the subcontractor plan is excluded.
FOIA requests submitted to NSWC IHD may be mailed to:
NSWC IHD
Command Evaluation
3824 Strauss Avenue, Suite 203
Indian Head, MD 20640-5150
Again, FOIA request by telephone will not be honored, but for questions on the FOIA process, fax (301) 744-6398 or call (301) 744-6739.
Initial responses to requests within 20 working days may not include responsive documents if content is protected.