Tips

Best FOIA Tips for Beginners: A Practical Guide

By Matthew Bovee, Investigative Journalist Lincoln Nebraska

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is the most powerful tool in an investigative journalist’s arsenal. It allows citizens to request documents from federal agencies, opening doors to stories that powerful interests would rather keep hidden. But FOIA can also be frustrating, slow, and confusing — especially for beginners.

After two decades of filing FOIA requests, I’ve learned a few tricks that can mean the difference between getting the documents you need and waiting months — or years — for nothing. Here’s what I wish I knew when I started.