RTI Application Format (Right to Information Act, 2005)

Q: How do I file an RTI application?

Write a simple application addressed to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned public authority under Section 6 of the RTI Act, 2005, stating the specific information you want. Pay the prescribed fee and submit it in person, by post, or online where available.

Q: What is the fee for an RTI application?

For central public authorities the application fee is generally Rs. 10, payable by cash, demand draft, banker's cheque, postal order, or online. Applicants below the poverty line are exempt from the fee. State rules may prescribe different amounts.

Q: Within how many days must the RTI be answered?

The PIO must ordinarily provide the information within 30 days of receipt of the application. Where the information concerns the life or liberty of a person, it must be provided within 48 hours.

Q: What if I don't get a reply or I'm not satisfied?

You can file a First Appeal to the First Appellate Authority within 30 days of the expiry of the 30-day period or receipt of the reply. If still unsatisfied, a Second Appeal lies to the Information Commission (Central or State) within 90 days.

An RTI application does not need a special form — a simple, clearly worded request to the right Public Information Officer is enough. Below is how to file one, the fee, the timelines, the appeal route, and a ready template.

How to file an RTI application

Under Section 6 of the RTI Act, 2005, address a written application to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned public authority, stating the specific information you want. Submit it in person, by post, or online (for many central bodies via the RTI online portal), with the prescribed fee.

Fee and timelines

Fee: generally Rs. 10 for central authorities; BPL applicants are exempt. State rules may vary.
30 days: the PIO must ordinarily provide the information within 30 days.
48 hours: where it concerns the life or liberty of a person.
First appeal: to the First Appellate Authority within 30 days if no reply or you are dissatisfied.
Second appeal: to the Central/State Information Commission within 90 days.

RTI application template

To, The Public Information Officer, ____________________ (Name of the public authority / department) ____________________ (Address) Subject: Application under the Right to Information Act, 2005 Sir/Madam, 1. Name of the applicant: ____________________ 2. Address: ____________________ 3. Particulars of information sought: (a) ____________________ (b) ____________________ (c) For the period: ____________________ 4. I state that the information sought does not fall under the exemptions in Section 8, and to the best of my knowledge it pertains to your office. 5. A fee of Rs. 10 is enclosed by way of ____________ (IPO / DD / cash receipt). [If BPL, attach proof; fee exempt.] I request that the information be provided to me by post / email / in person. Place: ____________ __________________________ Date: ____________ Signature of Applicant

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Frequently asked questions

How do I file an RTI application?

Write a simple application to the PIO of the public authority under Section 6 of the RTI Act, state the information you want, pay the fee, and submit it in person, by post, or online.

What is the fee for an RTI application?

Generally Rs. 10 for central authorities; BPL applicants are exempt. State rules may prescribe different amounts.

Within how many days must the RTI be answered?

Ordinarily 30 days; within 48 hours where it concerns the life or liberty of a person.

What if I don't get a reply or I'm not satisfied?

File a First Appeal within 30 days; if still unsatisfied, a Second Appeal to the Information Commission within 90 days.