How To Write
Your Congresspersons
Letters to Elected Officials
Writing effective letters to your federally elected officials can be accomplished by
following a few simple guidelines. Letters can be sent either by U.S. mail or fax.
- 1. Keep the letter to one page in length (two at most).
- 2. Type or write legibly.
- 3. Have a respectful and courteous tone; do not insult or threaten.
- 4. Stick to one issue; include the bill number if possible.
- 5. State your position up front, including what you are asking the Member to do.
- 6. Support your position with facts; avoid "I believe," "I feel" statements.
- 7. Explain how the legislation will affect you and others; avoid overly emotional
arguments.
- 8. Perhaps suggest a better approach to the legislation you disagree with.
- 9. Thank the Member for any past support.
- 10. Request a written response (be sure to include your complete address).
Writing to Congress
U.S. Mail:
The Honorable ____________
U.S. Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
"Dear Senator ________ ,"
The Honorable _____________
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
"Dear Representative ______ ,"
Fax Letters: Members do not always list their fax numbers for public use. For
available fax numbers, contact Members' web pages at www.house.gov for
Representatives or www.senate.gov for
Senators or access active links to your Members' web pages at "Contact Your
Congressperson" above.
Writing to the White House
U.S. Mail:
The President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President,
Fax Letters: 202-456-2461
Writing Letters-to-the-Editor
Letters-to-the-editor are another great way to communicate your views on pressing
public issues. The general public reads these letters and Members of Congress keep
track of what is being said in the newspapers in their districts and states. No
newspaper or community newsletter should be overlooked.
- 1. Editors look for well-written and informed letters on issues discussed in their
newspaper.
- 2. Cite the article, with date, on which you are commenting.
- 3. If you have special expertise in the topic or area, reference that in the letter,
in use of title after your name, or in a separate note to the editor, whichever is
appropriate.
- 4. Keep the letter short and to the point. Long letters will be edited by the editor.
- 5. If appropriate, point out how the issue affects the local community.
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