How the FOI deadline works
Under the Freedom of Information Act, public authorities must respond within 20 working days from the first working day after receiving your request. Weekends and UK bank holidays don't count — they extend the deadline. Use the calculator below to get your exact response due date.
This FOI calculator matches ICO guidance: the clock starts the next working day after receipt, and the response is due by the end of the 20th working day.
FOI due date calculator: quick answer
For most UK Freedom of Information requests, the response deadline is 20 working days. Enter the received date above and this FOI calculator counts forward while skipping weekends and listed UK bank holidays.
How the FOI due date is counted
The working day count normally starts on the first working day after the request is received. This tool gives a practical FOI response date to check against official guidance, especially where a request arrives before a weekend or bank holiday.
Common FOI calculator searches
- FOI calculator UK
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For background reading, see the FOI 20 working days guide, or compare related time limits in the SAR deadline calculator.
Important: This site is a planning aid, not legal advice. Deadlines can depend on facts, policy wording, jurisdiction, service rules, pauses, extensions and changing law. Always verify important deadlines with the official guidance or a qualified adviser.
FAQs
How many working days for an FOI response?
Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, public authorities must respond within 20 working days from the first working day after your request is received. Weekends and UK bank holidays are not counted.
When does the FOI 20 working day clock start?
The clock starts on the first working day after the authority receives your request. If your request arrives on a Friday, the clock starts on Monday — good to know when timing your submission. If it arrives on a bank holiday, the clock starts the next working day.
Can the FOI deadline be extended?
Yes. Public authorities can extend the deadline by a 'reasonable' period if they need to consider the public interest test. They must tell you about any extension and the reasons for it within the original 20 working day period.
What happens if the FOI deadline is missed?
If a public authority misses the 20 working day deadline without a valid extension, you can request an internal review. If still unsatisfied, you can complain to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).
Does this count calendar days or working days?
The FOI Act uses working days, not calendar days. This calculator counts Monday to Friday, excluding weekends and UK bank holidays, to give you the correct response deadline.
What if my request goes to the wrong authority?
If the authority does not hold the information, they should advise you within the 20 working day period. They are not required to transfer your request, but some do so voluntarily.