What is the NARA Federal Agency Records Management Self-Assessment and is it mandatory?

What the Self-Assessment Is

The Federal Agency Records Management Self-Assessment is a reporting instrument used by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) to gauge how well executive branch agencies are managing their records. Through a structured questionnaire, agencies report on the policies, practices, and controls they have in place across their records management programs.

NARA uses the responses to measure the maturity and risk level of agency programs, identify government-wide trends, and target guidance and oversight where it is most needed. Historically the questions have covered areas such as program leadership and staffing, records schedules and disposition, electronic records management, and training.

What It Typically Covers

While the exact questions evolve over time, self-assessments generally ask agencies about:

• Designation of a senior agency official and records officer responsible for the program
• Whether records are scheduled and disposed of under approved retention schedules
• How electronic records and email are captured and maintained
• Internal policies, controls, and staff training

Agencies usually score themselves against defined criteria, and NARA may roll results into a maturity or risk rating.

Is It Mandatory?

In general, yes. NARA’s authority to oversee federal records management is grounded in the Federal Records Act and related regulations, which direct agencies to cooperate with NARA’s inspection and reporting activities. The self-assessment is the principal mechanism NARA has used to collect this information, and agencies subject to the program are expected to respond accurately and on time.

It is important to understand the scope: the program applies to federal executive branch agencies. It is not a requirement for private companies, state or local governments, or individuals. Agencies should confirm current requirements, deadlines, and the precise format directly with NARA, since the instrument and reporting cadence have changed over the years.

Why It Matters

Beyond compliance, the self-assessment is a useful internal checkpoint. Working through it helps an agency surface gaps, document its program, and prioritize improvements before they become audit findings or recordkeeping failures.

For broader context on federal recordkeeping obligations and oversight, see our federal records topic hub.