31 Free Example Request Letters
A cordial and tactful request may get you what you want!
Choose a topic to view request letter templates:
Request a change in a contract or agreement
Request a copy of an official document
Request a raise or promotion
Request a response to a survey or questionnaire
Request an endorsement or testimonial
Request assistance or cooperation from someone in another firm
Request confirmation of an authorization to take action
More Request Letters
Credit Line
Information
Sales
Service
Miscellaneous Request
Request a retraction or correction from the media
Request application materials for admission to college
Request confirmation of receipt of earlier mailings
Request correction of an error in a check
Request correction of an insurance company's error
Request estimates or bids
Request payment of a personal loan
Request permission to use another's materials
Request that someone write a letter of recommendation in your behalf
Request Related
Accept a request to serve in an honorary position
Announce actions to be taken during a strike (management's announcement)
Announce an employee training session
Announce an imminent strike (labor's announcement)
Answer a request for information on a product or service
Appeal to higher authorities when complaint letters don't work
Approve a request
Ask an applicant for credit to submit more information
Ask for an investment
Ask for personal advice
Ask to extend or shorten a deadline
Cancel a membership or subscription
Change official records
Complain about a billing error
Complain about harassment
Complain about poor service or a faulty product
Decline a request for a claim or adjustment
Decline a request for a donation
Decline a request for credit
Decline a request for employment
File a warranty claim
Inform a customer of an incorrect payment amount and ask for the balance
Inform a customer that the check you received was not signed or the payment was not in the envelope
Investigate an applicant's credit reference
Invite or request suggestions from employees and customers
Make an insurance claim
Notify an insurance policyholder of a pending cancellation of the policy
Remind an organization member to pay a fee, duty, or pledge
Respond to a complaint, but needing more information
Respond to a job advertisement and request an interview
Respond to a request for your resume
Respond to a request or application for additional training
Transmit equipment or supplies that a company employee has requested
Use networking in a job search
Write a collection letter
Write a fundraising letter
Write a letter in a job search
Write a persuasive letter that makes a charitable request
How to Write a Request Letter
Award-Winning, Nationally Recognized Writer
- Be particularly courteous and tactful when writing this letter, as requests are generally an imposition on another's time and/or resources or talents. Put the reader at ease, and help her or him feel that responding will not be burdensome.
- Be brief.
- Be confident and persuasive. Be assertive but not overbearing.
- Don't hem and haw around the issue—be straightforward, and include as much detail as necessary to clearly convey your request.
- Don't be manipulative.
- Avoid the temptation to apologize for your request. Strive to make the person feel complimented that you would ask the favor of him or her.
- Make only reasonable requests.
- Express your willingness to reciprocate the kindness or favor.
- Invite the person to contact you if he or she has any questions or concerns, and thank him or her for taking the time to consider your request.
- Make it easy for the person to respond—tell him or her exactly what can be done to accommodate your request, and do everything within your power so that the request can be granted (e.g., if you are asking for a letter of recommendation, include your résumé or a list of accomplishments and a stamped, addressed envelope).