Types of records that can be obtained through FOIA requests?

Any record may be obtained through the FOIA, provided that the record is not exempt from release by one of the nine FOIA exemptions. In the case of Privacy Act records, you must provide the written permission of the individual whose records you seek.

If the individual is deceased, you must provide a copy of the death certificate. In no case will the names and/or addresses of beneficiaries (including deceased beneficiaries) be released under the FOIA as this information is protected by another statute (exemption (b)(3)).

Types of records include medical, benefit, personnel, burial, financial, audits, administrative investigations, legal opinions, and contracts. Please note that medical and beneficiary records are Privacy Act records and some of the information is exempt from release under the (b)(3) and (b)(6) FOIA exemptions.

For information on the records VA maintains, see VA Privacy Act Systems of Records.

Related Information
Where should I send my request? Types of records that can be obtained through FOIA requests? How does VA make the determination of whether or not a record can be released?	Fees Can I fax or e-mail my request? Response Times Multi-Track Processing of FOIA Appeals How To Submit A FOIA Request