Be specific about documents, not questions
Agencies are required to produce existing records, not to answer questions or create summaries. Ask for 'the executed contract and all amendments for RFP 2026-07', not 'information about the vendor'.
Bound the request by date and custodian
A date range and a named department reduce review time, which reduces both delay and fee estimates.
Know your statutory clock
Most states require an initial response within a set number of business days. Cite the statute in your request and ask for a written explanation of any extension.
Ask for electronic copies
Requesting native electronic files usually avoids per-page copying fees and gets you searchable documents.
If you are denied
A denial must generally cite a specific exemption. Ask for a redaction log, and request that non-exempt portions be released separately.