You may need it in the event of an appeal or if your original request is not answered. If you are not sure whether the information you want falls under one of the nine exemptions, you may request it anyway. Agencies usually have discretion to release material that falls under these exemptions. In addition, giving reasons for a request might help the agency to locate information which is useful to you. An agency may charge only for the actual cost of searching for the material and the cost of making copies for you.
Actual costs can vary from agency to agency.
For noncommercial requests, agencies will not charge for the first two hours of search time or for the first 100 pages of photocopies. Agencies also will waive further charges if the total cost is minimal. If fees are charged, you may receive a waiver or reduction of fees if you request it and can show that the information you are seeking will, when released, contribute significantly to the public understanding of the operations or activities of the government. Sometimes an agency may need more than 10 working days to find the records, examine them, possibly consult other persons or agencies, and decide whether it will disclose the records requested. If so, the agency is required to inform you before the deadline.