Personal Information Access Request
(Canada)

Summary

This template is a sample Personal Information Access Request that could be used by a Canadian organization to allow individuals to request access to their personal information. This template includes practical guidance and drafting notes. Under the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, S.C. 2000, c. 5 (PIPEDA), individuals requesting personal information from an organization must do so in writing (PIPEDA, s. 8(1)), but organizations cannot require a particular form. Further, if a requestor informs the organization they need help preparing the request, the organization must provide it (PIPEDA, s. 8(2)). For information on making access requests, see Personal Information Access in the Private Sector (Canada). This is a form that could be used by an organization engaged in commercial activity to receive access requests. An organization cannot require that a specified form be used. However, individuals should make their requests in writing. An organization may follow up with the individual to obtain more information relating to the request in order to clarify and narrow the scope of the request. For a more detailed discussion on providing access to personal information in Canada, see Privacy Law (Canada).