Tips on Writing to Congress

The letter is the most popular choice of communication with a congressional office. If you decide to write a letter, this list of helpful suggestions will improve the effectiveness of the letter:

Your purpose for writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If the letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation, identify it accordingly, e.g., House Bill H.R., Senate Bill: S.

Be courteous, to the point, and include key information, using examples to support your position.

Address only one issue in each letter; and, if possible, keep the letter to one page.

Addressing Correspondence To a Senator

The Honorable (full name)
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator (last name):

Addressing Correspondence To a Representative

The Honorable (full name)
United States House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Representative (last name):

Note: When writing to the Chair of a Committee or the Speaker of the House, it is proper to address them as:

Dear Mr. Chairman or Madam Chairwoman or Dear Mr. Speaker.

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