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Capitol Hill Basics - Telephoning Members of Congress

Use the following helpful hints when telephoning your Members of Congress:

Remember Only One Number. To call your Representative or Senator you need to know one number – the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Ask for your Senator's or Representative's office and the operator will transfer you.

Ask for a Staffer. Telephone calls are often taken by a staff member. Once you are transferred, ask to speak with the staffer who deals with the issue you are concerned about or ask for the staffer who handles tourism issues. Do not just leave your message with the receptionist. If the staffer is not available leave the message on their voice mail. Take note of the staffer's name for future correspondence.

State the Reason for your Call. Identifying yourself, the organization you work for and the fact that you are a constituent. Tell the staffer you would like to leave a brief message, such as: "Please tell Senator/Representative (Name) that I am calling to urge him/her to support/oppose (S.___/H.R.___)." Try to be precise about what you are asking the lawmaker to do. State the reasons you are asking the Member to support or oppose the bill or take certain action.

Ask for Follow-Up. Ask for your Senator's or Representative's position on the bill. You may also request a written response to your telephone call or leave your phone number so your legislator or a staffer can call you for a follow-up conversation. If you request a written response, remember to leave your mailing address. If you live or work in the district, give your address.