What is the fee for application for providing the information and mode of payment of fees?

RTI Application Fees and Payment Methods

Under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, there are specific fees associated with filing an application and obtaining information. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Application Fee

• Amount: The application fee is generally ₹10 (Rupees ten) per application.
• Exemption: Applicants who are Below Poverty Line (BPL) are exempt from paying the application fee. They need to attach a self-attested copy of their BPL certificate with the application.

Additional Fees

• Photocopy Charges: ₹2 per page (A4 or A3 size) for copies of documents.
• Inspection of Records: No fee for the first hour; ₹5 for each subsequent hour (or fraction thereof).
• Diskette or Floppy: ₹50 per diskette or floppy.
• Printed Form: The actual cost or price fixed for such publication.

Mode of Payment

• Cash: Payment can be made in cash against a proper receipt if submitting the application in person.
• Demand Draft or Bankers Cheque: Payable to the Accounts Officer of the public authority.
• Indian Postal Order (IPO): Payable to the Accounts Officer of the public authority.
• Electronic Payment: If the public authority has the facility, fees can be paid electronically.
• Adhesive Court Fee Stamps: Used when seeking information from a court or judicial institution.

Summary

The RTI Act ensures that the process of seeking information is affordable and accessible. The nominal fees and multiple payment options make it easier for citizens to exercise their right to information.