Fees and Waivers

Before you make your request, ask the agency for the current agency fee schedule. It will explain the cost of different types of searches (manual versus computer, clerical versus professional, and the like). It will also tell you the cost per page for photocopying. Fees can vary widely from agency to agency, and even within the same agency. Let the agency know in advance how much you are willing to pay for the requested information.

Sometimes an agency will waive the fee. This will happen on a case-by-case basis if the request is considered to be in the public interest, which means the information will significantly help the public understand the operations or activities of the government agency. (More about fee waivers >>)

If you are charged an excessive fee, write the official who responded to your request and ask for an itemization of the charges.

If you are denied a waiver, or if the agency gives you an unsatisfactory fee reduction, press the agency official to justify these actions by requesting a full explanation of the reasons why this decision has been made.

You can also file an appeal and later go to court if you are not satisfied with your fee reduction.

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