How to make a Subject Access Request
Published 2 November 2026
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1. How to make a Subject Access Request
To submit a SAR, you can email your request, submit it through the Portal, or write to us directly.
When making your request, please:
- state that you are making a SAR
- provide sufficient information for us to identify you (for example, your full name, address, date of birth, reference number)
- tell us what information you are looking for, if possible, to help us locate the relevant records
- provide proof of identity if requested and where necessary to verify your identity
2. What happens next
Once we receive your request:
- we will acknowledge receipt of your request
- we may contact you if we need additional information or proof of identity
- we will normally respond within one month of receiving your request, or from the date your identity has been verified where verification is required
- if your request is particularly complex, we may extend the response period by up to two additional months. If this happens, we will let you know within the first month and explain why an extension is needed
3. Fees and associated costs
In most cases, SARs are provided free of charge. However, we may charge a reasonable fee where a request is unfounded, excessive, resource intensive, or where additional copies of the same information are requested. We will explain the fee breakdown where necessary.
There is no suggested fee table for different tasks. The IAA will assess in accordance with the resources needed and we will explain this to the enquirer where necessary.