There are many reasons why one may need to write a letter asking for assistance. Letters of assistance are often written by persons or organizations seeking funding or support from another person or fellow organizations. Letters of assistance are also written to acquire information, directions, or opinions on a particular subject or project.

Always provide clear and current contact information in your letter. For example, your name or the name of the organization you are representing. Always include current email addresses, phone numbers and fax numbers and also the hours you may be conveniently contacted. It is always a good idea to include the name and contact information of someone is knowledgeable about your request and who may be reached in the case of your absence.

Immediately state how you need to be assisted. It is important to be as clear and concise as possible. It should be easy for your reader to immediately understand the purpose of your letter. For example, if you are seeking funding state that you are requesting funding. If you are seeking information state that you are requesting information. Your intentions should not be vague. The reader should not be left wondering what it is that you need assistance with.

Provide a brief but clear explanation of why you need assistance. If you are requesting funding or sponsorship for an event, explain the need and importance of such an event. If you are planning to travel and need information about the area, include your reason for visiting. These could be leisure, or business, or maybe research of the area. A brief explanation of your need for assistance will tell the reader why this is important to you or your organization.

Leave the door open for further communication. Invite the reader to ask questions or further inquire about what you are requesting from them. This is important when requesting funding. The reader will most likely have questions about how their funding will be used or appropriated. The same is true if you are requesting personal information for research or other purposes. The reader will need to feel assured that the information provided will be used in an appropriate and responsible manner. It is necessary that you be competent and willing to answer any further questions that your reader may have.

In closing express to the reader how important it is that he or she provide you with the assistance that you are asking of them. Always give your thanks and gratitude in advance for the readers time and consideration.

Writing a letter requesting assistance may seem like a daunting task. It doesn’t have to be. With clear expression and a little organization of your thoughts this can be easily accomplished.