Writing a Letter to Your Member of Congress

Personal letters from constituents can be powerful. Personal letters show that you really care about the issue. If time is of the essence, fax or e-mail the letter, and then mail the original. Never underestimate the power of a constituent's letter. To make your letter effective:

• Keep it short. Be concise and limit your letter to one or two pages.
• Use the appropriate address and salutation. Use the correct title, address, and salutation, and remember to use spell check after completing your letter.

For Representative: The Honorable John Q. Smith U.S. House of Representatives 111 Address Washington, DC 20010 Dear Representative Smith:

For Senator: The Honorable John Q. Smith U.S. Senate 111 Address Columbus, Ohio 55555 Dear Senator Smith:

Identify yourself. Let your legislator know that you are a constituent, a social worker, and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. If you work in a welfare assistance program, let that be known as well.

Be polite. Like most of us, legislators will respond better to positive communication. Start off by recognizing their support on other legislation.

Explain your position. Talk about how the 1996 legislation has affected you or the people you serve. Include the NASW recommendations in your letter.

Ask for a response. Be clear about what you would like your legislator to do—for example, vote for apiece of legislation, co-sponsor legislation, or offer an amendment—and request a reply to your letter.

Establish yourself as a resource. You are an expert in your field and can offer to provide additional information regarding the field, the issue, and the effect of proposed legislation.

Write legibly. Handwritten letters can be as persuasive as typed letters, but your handwriting must be legible. Generally, writing in a professional capacity related to your employment lends credibility. If your letter is part of a letter-writing campaign, a handwritten letter gives the appearance of a grassroots "ordinary citizen" communication, rather than a communication from a "special interest group."

Sample Letter

Recommendations for the Reauthorization of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PDF)