Is this a formal notice?

No, this is a request for information under the Right to Information Act. A formal notice before proceedings has a different purpose and format.

Are they required to respond?

Yes, under the RTI Act, they are required to respond within 30 days of receiving the application.

Can I ask for the reasons behind a decision?

Yes, you can ask for reasons for administrative or quasi-judicial decisions that are on record.

Is handwritten application acceptable?

Yes, a handwritten application on plain paper is acceptable and valid.

What if my application is rejected?

You can file an appeal with the First Appellate Authority within the same department, and if still unsatisfied, a second appeal to the Central or State Information Commission.

Do I need a lawyer for RTI?

No, a lawyer is not required. The process is designed to be user-friendly.

Is there a penalty for not providing information?

The PIO can be penalised by the Information Commission for delays or wrongful denial.

Does RTI apply to private companies?

No. The RTI Act applies only to government bodies and organizations substantially funded by the government.

Do I have to be a resident of the area to ask questions?

No, you must be a citizen of India to file an RTI application, but you can ask for information from any public authority in the country, regardless of your location.

Is it necessary to state the reason for seeking information?

No, it's not required. You can simply state you are an Indian citizen.

RTI Application Format & Generator Online

Filing RTI Application in India: Empower Yourself with Information

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 is one of India's most powerful tools for transparency and accountability. It empowers citizens to seek information from public authorities on matters of governance, spending, decisions, and services. Whether you want details on delayed government projects, status of your application, public fund utilisation, or policy decisions—an RTI application is a key tool to obtain answers.

This guide covers the complete process of filing an RTI application in India—what information you can seek, drafting tips, fees, timelines, online/offline methods, appeals, and strategies to get effective responses from Public Information Officers (PIOs).

What Information Can You Seek Under RTI?

RTI applies to all public authorities (central/state government, PSUs, bodies funded by government). You can request:

Status of applications, pensions, subsidies
Copies of documents, files, records
Reasons for administrative decisions
Public expenditure details and tenders
Policy notes and file notings
Inspection of public works/records

Exemptions exist for national security, privacy, etc., but PIO must justify denial.

Essential Elements of an Effective RTI Application

Structure your application clearly:

Your name, address, contact details
PIO's designation and department address
Subject: "Application under RTI Act 2005"
Specific, point-wise questions (avoid vague queries)
Time period for information (e.g., last 5 years)
Request for certified copies if needed
BPL status declaration if fee-exempt
Date and signature

Fees and Payment Modes

Application fee: ₹10 (cash, DD, IPO, or online)
Additional: ₹2 per page for copies, ₹50/hour for inspection
BPL applicants: Fully exempt (attach proof)
Many states offer online payment

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Identify correct public authority and PIO
Draft application with precise questions
Generate using our free tool for a standard format
File online (rtionline.gov.in for central govt) or offline
Pay fee and retain receipt
PIO must respond within 30 days (48 hours for life/liberty matters)

Online vs Offline Filing

Online: Fast via rtionline.gov.in (central) or state portals
Offline: Send by registered/speed post or submit in person
Keep acknowledgment/proof of submission

What to Do If No Response or Unsatisfactory Reply

File First Appeal to First Appellate Authority (within 30 days)
Second Appeal to Central/State Information Commission (within 90 days)
No fee for appeals

Best Practices for Strong RTI Applications

Ask point-wise, specific questions—avoid "why" or opinion-based
Limit to one subject per application
Mention "information as per RTI Act records"
Request inspection if documents are voluminous
Follow up politely if delayed

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Vague or too many questions
Wrong PIO/authority
Not paying fee (non-BPL)
Asking personal information of others
Using abusive language

For transparency in public matters, pair with a General Application or Notice.

Conclusion

The RTI Act is a powerful citizen tool for accountability. A well-drafted application ensures you receive the information you are entitled to within timelines.

Our free generator creates a professional, RTI-compliant application instantly—customizable, multilingual, and ready for submission. Exercise your right to information effectively!

For filing RTI online, visit the RTI Online portal.

RTI Application Generator

Complete Guide to Filing RTI Application in India