A CITIZEN'S GUIDE ON USING THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT AND THE PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 TO REQUEST GOVERNMENT RECORDS

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Appendix 1.--Sample Request and Appeal Letters

F. Privacy Act Appeal of Refusal to Amend Records

Privacy Act and Freedom of Information Act Officer
Name of Agency
Address of Agency
City, State, Zip Code

Re: Privacy Act Appeal of Refusal to Amend Records

Dear :

This is an appeal under the Privacy Act of the refusal of your agency to amend records as I requested.

On (date), I requested that records about me be amended. My request was assigned the following identification number ________.

On (date), I was informed by (name of official) that my request was rejected. I appeal the rejection of my request. The rejection of my request for amendment was wrong because . . . .

[Optional] I enclose additional evidence that shows that the records are incorrect and that the amendment I requested is appropriate.

[Optional] I also include a telephone number at which I can be contacted during the hours of ________, if necessary, to discuss any aspect of my appeal.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.