How to Request a Copy of Your Background Investigation (FOIA or Privacy Act)

Requesting a copy of your background investigation is a smart, proactive move—especially if you’re preparing to apply for, appeal, or reapply for a security clearance. Whether you’re trying to spot red flags, verify accuracy, or respond to a denial, understanding exactly what’s in your file can be a game-changer. At National Security Law Firm, we walk clients through this process every day.

This guide covers how to request your background investigation through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or Privacy Act, including which agency to contact, what to include, and what to expect.

What is a Background Investigation?

Your background investigation is a detailed report used to determine your eligibility for a security clearance or to hold a sensitive federal position. It includes:

  • Personal interviews (yours and references’)
  • Financial records and credit reports
  • Employment history
  • Criminal records
  • Foreign contacts and travel
  • Mental health and substance use history
  • Any derogatory findings or security concerns

Who Maintains My Background Investigation?

The most common investigative agencies are:

  • Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) – the primary agency for DoD civilian, military, and contractor investigations.
  • Office of Personnel Management (OPM) – formerly handled investigations prior to DCSA.
  • Department of State, CIA, NSA, or FBI – if you’ve applied through an intelligence or diplomatic agency.

If you’re unsure which agency holds your file, start with DCSA if you’re affiliated with the military, a federal job, or a contractor position.

How to File a FOIA or Privacy Act Request

To request your records, you must submit a written FOIA or Privacy Act request that includes:

What to Include:

  • Full name (include any prior names used)
  • Date and place of birth
  • Social Security Number
  • Mailing address and phone number
  • A clear statement that you are requesting your background investigation under the Privacy Act and FOIA 
  • A signed statement verifying your identity (you can use a notarized statement or a signed declaration under penalty of perjury)
  • Optional: specify the investigation type or year (e.g., “requesting a copy of my 2019 SSBI completed for a DoD Top Secret clearance”)

Where to Send It:

DCSA FOIA/Privacy Office
 Email: dcsa.quantico.dcsa-hq.mbx.foia@mail.mil
 Mail:
DCSA FOIA and Privacy Office
27130 Telegraph Road
Quantico, VA 22134

You may also visit their online portal:
👉 https://www.dcsa.mil/about/foia/

How Long Does It Take?

Response times vary widely. You might receive your file within 2–4 months, but some requests take up to a year or longer—especially if there’s a backlog or classified content that requires redactions.

You’ll usually receive a CD-ROM or PDF with redacted investigative summaries and notes. These can include investigator reports, subject interviews, and any issues that were flagged.

Why It’s Worth It

Your background investigation may reveal:

  • Errors or outdated derogatory information
  • Old debts that were resolved
  • Investigators’ subjective impressions or inaccuracies
  • Potential stumbling blocks for a future clearance application

Getting ahead of these issues can significantly improve your odds when responding to a Letter of Interrogatory, Statement of Reasons, or planning a reapplication.

Need Help Making the Request or Interpreting It?

Many clients are shocked by what they find—or what they don’t. At National Security Law Firm, we don’t just help you request your investigation—we help you interpret the results and develop a plan of attack if anything is working against you.

Let our attorneys review your report and guide you on how to correct, explain, or challenge any damaging material.

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🛡️ Why Choose NSLF?

At National Security Law Firm, we’re not your average clearance attorneys—we’re the elite unit for national security representation:

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  • Located in Washington, D.C. — where clearance decisions are made
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  • SF-86 Review: $950 flat fee
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  • Statement of Reasons (SOR): $5,000 flat feeAlready paid for your LOI response? You’ll get a $3,000 credit applied here.
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