The federal law allows for nine specific exemptions, although an agency cannot withhold an entire document because some parts are exempt from disclosure. The FOIA states that the agency can delete only the exempted parts and must release the remaining information. Even if you are uncertain, do not let the exemptions prevent you from filing a FOIA request. Generally, the exemptions cover:

• National security and classified documents
• Internal agency practices and rules
• Information exempt under other federal laws (e.g., the tax code provision prohibiting public disclosure of tax returns and tax return information)
• Trade secrets and commercial information
• Internal government memos
• Invasion of personal privacy (e.g., an individual’s medical files)
• Law enforcement
• Financial institution reports
• Geological information about oil wells