How to File an RTI Application
Any citizen of India can file an RTI application to seek information from any public authority. The process is simple and can be done online or offline.
Educational Purpose: This information is for general awareness only. Consult a qualified legal professional for specific advice.
Fees for RTI Application
- Application Fee: ₹10 (for central government authorities)
- Method of Payment: Cash, DD, IPO, or online payment
- Additional Fees (for information):
- ₹2 per page of A4 size
- ₹5 per floppy/CD/DVD
- Actual cost for samples/models
- ₹50 per hour for inspection of records
- BPL Exemption: Below Poverty Line card holders are exempt from all fees
Online RTI Application (Central Govt)
1 Visit the official RTI portal: www.rtionline.gov.in
2 Click on "Submit Request"
3 Select the ministry/department you want information from
4 Fill in your personal details (name, address, mobile, email)
5 Write your questions/request for information clearly
6 Pay the ₹10 fee online (net banking, card, UPI)
7 Submit the application
8 Save the acknowledgment/registration number for tracking
Offline RTI Application
- Write RTI application on plain paper (handwritten or typed)
- Address it to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned department
- Clearly mention "Application under Right to Information Act, 2005"
- Write your questions/request for information
- Provide your name, complete address, and contact number
- Attach ₹10 fee (Indian Postal Order or DD) or cash if submitting in person
- Send by registered post or submit in person to the PIO's office
- Take acknowledgment/ receipt for proof of submission
Sample RTI Application Format
To,
The Public Information Officer,
[Department Name],
[Address]
Subject: Application under Right to Information Act, 2005
Respected Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Full Name], son/daughter of [Father's Name], resident of [Complete Address], request the following information under the RTI Act, 2005:
1. [Write your first question clearly and specifically]
2. [Write your second question]
3. [Write your third question]
I am enclosing the application fee of ₹10 (Indian Postal Order No. [Number]) as prescribed.
Please provide the information within 30 days as mandated by law. In case information is not provided, please specify reasons for rejection.
Thanking you,
Signature: ____________
Name: [Your Name]
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]
Mobile: [Your Number]
Tips for Drafting Effective RTI Questions
- Be specific and precise about what information you want
- Ask for "copies of documents" rather than just asking questions
- Mention time periods (e.g., "from January 2020 to December 2023")
- Ask for information that actually exists with the public authority
- Avoid vague questions like "Why was this done?"
- Break down complex requests into multiple simple points
- Use numbered points for clarity
Important Note: The RTI application must be submitted to the correct public authority. If the information is not held by that authority, it will be transferred (which takes additional time).
What to Do If Application is Rejected?
- If the PIO rejects your application, they must provide reasons
- You can file a First Appeal within 30 days to the First Appellate Authority
- If not satisfied with First Appeal, file Second Appeal before Information Commission
Tracking Your RTI Application
- Online applications: Track on rtionline.gov.in using registration number
- Offline applications: Note the acknowledgment number given by PIO
- If no response in 30 days, deemed refusal - eligible for appeal