
Letter acknowledging receipt of a data subject request (and requesting verification of ID)
- Streamlines your data protection processes
- Quick and easy to customise and complete
- Assists you with complying with the UK GDPR
This template letter acknowledging receipt of a data subject request (and requesting verification of ID) will allow you to generate the first letter you should send after receiving a data subject request.
In most cases, you have one month from receipt of any request to provide information to the individual on the action you have taken in response. When you receive a request, you should acknowledge receipt of the request and confirm that you will be taking steps to process it.
If you have any reasonable doubts as to the identity of the person making the request, you might also ask for proof of ID. This template gives the option of including a request for ID.
If you have had to ask for ID before dealing with a request, the one-month time limit does not start until you receive suitable proof.
You can also get this template letter as part of the Data subject request toolkit.
Q&A
When should I use this document?
This document should be the first document you send to an individual who sends your business a request about their personal data. You do not have to respond to the request in full at this stage, and if you need to, you can use this opportunity to ask for ID.
If you need further clarification at this stage about the request itself, see Letter asking for further information about a data subject request.
What does this document cover?
This document acknowledges that your business has received a request from the recipient in relation to their personal data. It also allows you to verify the identity of the individual making the request, and gives you the option of setting out which forms of ID you will accept copies of.
Why do I need this document?
Any failure to respond properly to a data subject request can result in sanctions from the Information Commissioner's Office, or legal action from the individual concerned.
This document is the first step in your response to a request from an individual about their personal data. As such requests have to be responded to within a specified amount of time (usually one month), getting the ball rolling with this letter is an efficient start and allows you to validate the request early on.
Where can I find out more?
See Data subject requests in general for more information on what practical steps your business can take as soon as you receive a data subject request.
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