Contacting Your Representatives

Many people talk about letting their congressional representatives know where they stand on important issues, but few actually do it. It only takes a few minutes to pick up a pen or sit at a keyboard and write a letter to your Members of Congress. If you don’t have time for that, call them. They will listen.

  • Use the correct address and salutation:
    The Honorable______________
    United States Senate
    Washington, D.C. 20510
    Dear Senator:

    The Honorable______________
    U.S. House of Representatives
    Washington, D.C. 20515
    Dear Representative:

  • Try to keep to one typewritten page; two at the most. If writing a regular letter, don't write on the back of a page. If writing longhand, be sure to write legibly. Include your return address on the letter because envelopes are often thrown away.

  • If sending an email, always use upper and lower case letter, not all upper case. Include your home or business address.

  • State why you are writing and your position in the first sentence. Focus on one issue only. If the subject of your letter is a bill, cite it by name and number.

  • Be brief, clear, specific, polite, factual and accurate. Use your own words. Avoid emotional arguments.

  • Explain why the legislation you are writing about is good or bad from your point of view and how it will affect you and your family. Explain how the legislation will affect the member's district or state. Be specific. 

  • Ask for the legislator's views, but do not demand support. Even if they do not support you on this issue, the may support you the next time.

  • Say thank your for any previous support or assistance.

  • If telephoning your representative, find their phone number by using the online congressional directory or calling the U.S. Capital Switchboard at 202.224.3121.

  • Remember that telephone calls are often taken by a staff member, not the member of Congress. Ask to speak with the aide who handles the issue you wish to comment.

  • After identifying yourself, tell the aide you would like to leave a brief message, such as “ Please tell Senator/Representative that I support/oppose S. ____ or H.R. ____. Then briefly state your reasons. Ask for the senator’s or representative’s position on the bill. Remember that you may also request a written response to your telephone call.