What authorization is required for FOIA information to be released to a third party?
If an individual requests records pertaining to another person, authorization from that other (third party) person must be provided. A common example of this type of request is an attorney requesting records on behalf of a client. The client must provide authorization for Treasury Department records pertaining to him to be released to his attorney (the requester). The authorization must include verification of the third party’s identity by providing a copy of his driver’s license bearing his signature or a signed and dated statement that he understands the penalties provided in 5 U.S.C. 552a(i)(3) for requesting access to records under false pretenses, and the statement is subscribed by him as true and correct under penalty of perjury pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1746.
