How do I submit a written request for copies of records?
Federal law [5 USC 552a(b)] requires that all requests for records and information be submitted in writing. Each request must be hand signed (in cursive) and dated (within the last year). Please identify the documents or information needed and explain the purpose of your request.
Certain basic information needed to locate civilian personnel records and to answer the request, includes:
- full name used during Federal employment,
- date of birth,
- Social Security Number (if applicable),
- name and location of employing Federal agency
- beginning and ending dates of Federal service
- complete return mailing address and/or authorized return fax number
Written requests (hand signed in cursive and dated) may be mailed or faxed to:
National Personnel Records Center, Annex
1411 Boulder Boulevard
Valmeyer, IL 62295
Fax: 618-935-3014
Please note: NPRC can not email documents due to privacy concerns. We will mail or fax copies of available records as authorized by the requester. Former Federal civilian employees who have a strong interest in viewing their own files in person, rather than receiving document copies by mail, may request an appointment with the
Federal Records Center Research Room, or hire an
independent researcher to examine the records on their behalf.
Costs: Generally there is no charge for basic personnel and medical information provided to former Federal civilian employees and authorized representatives from non-archival records. If your request involves a service fee, you will be notified as soon as that determination is made. See
Archival Records for information on archival holdings and associated copy fees: archival OPFs are subject to the NARA fee schedule that authorizes the Agency to collect fees from the public for copies of archival records (44 USC 2116c and 44 USC 2307).
