What is The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)?
Through FOIA, you may acquire transparency to records and files maintained by a Federal agency. You may access information regarding the activities of Federal agencies by filing a FOIA request.
However, “all records” maintained by a federal agency are not releasable. FOIA has nine exemption codes, including a host of federal statutes, federal agencies can use to withhold information protected from release. For more information on protected records, please use the Regulations and Policies section below.
How to File a Hardcopy FOIA Request
We encourage filing a FOIA electronically for faster processing. However, we accept hard copy mailed requests at:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Freedom of Information Act Services (005R1C)
811 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20420
Office: 1-877-750-3642
Fax: 202-632-7581
File an Electronic FOIA Request
1. VA Central Office (VACO) FOIA email | |
2. Public Access Link (PAL) | |
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3. FOIA.gov for Specific VA Action Office Records | |
If you are searching for records regarding: |
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4. If you have already filed a request and not satisfied with the response, you may file a FOIA Appeal. |
Check the Status of Requests:
VA FOIA Services Goals to Best Serve You
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FOIA Law
The Freedom of Information Act, as amended 5 U.S.C. 552
Attorney General's Memorandum on FOIA
FOIA Guidance
DOJ FOIA Guide
Department of Justice FOIA
Department of Justice Guidance on the FOIA Improment Act of 2016
Regulations and Policies
VA Directive 6213 | Records and Information Management - 09/15/21 |
VA Handbook 6300.3 | Procedures for Implementing the FOIA 01/12/98 |
CFR 38 Part 1 & 2 | Release of Information from DVA Records |
CFR 1.460 - 1.474 | Release of Information from DVA Records (Drug Abuse) |
CFR 1.475 - 1.484 | Disclosures With Patient Consent |
CFR 1.485 - 1.489 | Disclosures Without Patient Consent |
CFR 1.490 - 1.499 | Court Orders Authorizing Disclosures and Use |
CFR 1.500 - 1.527 | Release of Information from DVA Claimant Records |
CFR 1.575 - 1.584 | Safeguarding Personal Information in DVA Records |
V03208266 Memo SI Notification Process | Memo SI Notification Process |
FOIA Redaction Memo | FOIA Redaction Memo |