Research and Verification Tools for Journalists
The tools and methods for finding records and checking facts. Each guide links to the tool, dataset or primary source it describes.
- FEC Campaign Finance Research for Journalists: A Guide
Learn how to search FEC donor and spending records, read 24- and 48-hour reports, spot missing new data, and know the rules on publishing donor names.
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- Government Data Sources for Journalists: Where to Start
A plain guide to Data.gov, Census Bureau data and BLS APIs: what each source offers, where it falls short, and how to check a number before you publish.
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- How Journalists Use the Federal Register, Regulations.gov
Learn how to use the Federal Register and Regulations.gov to track agency rules, read dockets and comments, set alerts, and check what is official.
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- How to Investigate a Company With Public Records
A plain guide for independent journalists: search SEC EDGAR, state filings, liens and county property records, and know what each record can and cannot show.
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- How to Track a Bill on Congress.gov: A Reporter's Guide
Learn how to track a bill on Congress.gov: find the bill number, read the bill page, set email alerts, and follow committee hearings as a reporter.
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- How to Verify a Source or Document Before You Publish
A plain guide for independent journalists: ask how you know, check provenance, test official PDFs and leaked documents, and say what you could not confirm.
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All guides for independent journalists
NPA membership is separate from any credential an agency issues
The National Press Association credential is a private association credential. It is not government-issued, it does not give you legal rights, and it does not guarantee access to any event, venue, or agency. It can serve as identity verification and supporting documentation alongside your published work. It is free to apply.