Get assistance

FAQ

One of Jay's top priorities is helping constituents when they have problems dealing with federal agencies. Please understand that while Jay can assist you in bringing your case to the attention of the proper officials and guide you through the process, he cannot direct an agency to decide a matter in your favor. His role is to assure you a fair, thorough and timely review of your case. Here are some frequently asked questions about congressional casework.

Can Jay help me cut through red tape with a federal agency?

Yes. As a federal representative, Jay can make inquiries on behalf of constituents to federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs and military. If your case involves state, county or city government, however, please visit http://apps.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder/ to find contact information for your state and local elected representatives. Here are other state and local resources that may be useful:

Washington state
King County
Kitsap County
Snohomish County

Can Jay help if I don't live in the 1st Congressional District?

Congressional courtesy and limited resources dictate that each member of Congress has the honor and responsbility of serving his or her own constituents. If you do not live in the 1st Congressional District, Jay will forward your request to your representative in Congress. If you are not sure whether you live in the 1st Congressional District, please go to the "Write Your Representative" Web site.

Can Jay help with a legal dispute?

As a member of the legislative branch, Jay is unable to get involved in court cases or legal issues due to the Separation of Powers Clause in the U.S. Constitution. This restriction applies both to civil and criminal matters.

Can Jay speed up the normal processing time for my case?

It is rare that a case can be expedited for any reason other than extreme hardship. If you believe your situation merits faster processing, please contact the Shoreline office at (206) 361-0233.

Can I call Jay to get assistance for someone else?

Due to the Privacy Act of 1974, written consent of the constituent who needs assistance is necessary for Jay to make an official inquiry. However, spouses, parents, children, friends, etc. are welcome to contact Jay’s staff at (206) 361-0233 to describe a situation regarding a constituent who is having a difficulty with a federal agency. Jay’s staff then can contact the constituent directly to obtain written consent.

What information does Jay need to help me?

If you would like Jay to help resolve your problem, please print and sign the Casework Authorization Form, then mail it to the address below.  You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader software to view and print the form; if you do not already have it, you may download the free Adobe Acrobat Reader software here.  The reason that you must print out and mail in the form instead of using an online form is because the Privacy Act of 1974 requires your signature before inquiries can be made on your behalf.

Copies of any documents or correspondence that you have from the agency involved may also be helpful. Please mail or fax the signed authorization form and relevant documents to:

U.S. Rep. Jay Inslee
Shoreline Center
18560 1st Avenue NE
Suite E-800
Shoreline, WA 98155-2150

Fax:
(206) 361-3959

If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Shoreline office at (206) 361-0233.

Read the Inslee Caseworker Mission Statement.