Fill out SF-95 (Claim for Damage, Injury, or Death) online
Standard Form 95 (SF-95) is used to file an administrative claim against the United States government for damage, injury, or death caused by the negligent or wrongful act of a federal government employee acting within the scope of their employment. It is required under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) before filing a lawsuit.
How to fill out SF-95 (Claim for Damage, Injury, or Death)
Identify the federal agency
Determine which federal agency employed the person whose actions caused the damage, injury, or death. This is the agency you will file the claim with.
Describe the incident
Provide the date, time, and location of the incident. Describe what happened in detail, including the names and roles of the federal employees involved. Explain how the federal employee negligence or wrongful act caused your damages.
Calculate and state your damages
Enter a specific dollar amount (sum certain) for your claim. Itemize property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. For personal injury, include medical records and bills. For property damage, include repair estimates or appraisals.
File the claim with supporting evidence
Submit the completed SF-95 to the appropriate federal agency claims office with all supporting documentation. Keep a copy and proof of submission. The agency has 6 months to respond before you can file a lawsuit.
About SF-95 (Claim for Damage, Injury, or Death)
Who needs this form
Any individual or entity that has suffered property damage, personal injury, or wrongful death caused by a federal employee acting within the scope of their employment. Filing the SF-95 is a mandatory prerequisite before filing a lawsuit against the U.S. government under the FTCA.
Where to submit
Submit to the federal agency whose employee caused the damage or injury. Each agency has its own claims office. The claim must be filed within 2 years of the date the claim accrued.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-16
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the 2-year statute of limitations (claim must be filed within 2 years of the incident)
- Not including a specific dollar amount for the claim (a "sum certain" is required)
- Filing with the wrong federal agency
- Not including sufficient evidence and documentation of the damages
- Setting the claim amount too low (you generally cannot increase the amount after filing without agency permission)
Frequently asked questions
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Do I need a lawyer to file an SF-95?
You are not required to have a lawyer to file an SF-95 claim. However, because the Federal Tort Claims Act has specific procedural requirements and the claim amount you state limits your potential recovery, many claimants choose to consult an attorney, especially for significant injury or death claims. An attorney can help you properly value your claim and avoid procedural pitfalls.
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