2026-21528Notice

Justice Seeks Feedback on Making Pardon Applications Less Painful

Published Date: 10/21/2026

Notice

Summary

The Department of Justice’s Office of the Pardon Attorney wants to update its pardon application process to make it easier and clearer for people applying after finishing their sentences. They’re asking for public feedback over the next 60 days to help improve the forms and reduce hassle. This update aims to save time and keep things running smoothly without extra costs.

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.

Revision of Pardon Application Form

The Department of Justice's Office of the Pardon Attorney is submitting a revision to the information collection titled "Application for Pardon After Completion of Sentence." This revised collection will be used by applicants seeking a presidential pardon and is a currently approved collection being revised for OMB review.

Estimated Time Burden for Applicants

The Office estimates that 500 to 1,000 applicants will complete the pardon petition annually, each taking an average of 180 minutes to respond, resulting in an estimated total public burden of 1,500 to 3,000 hours per year.

Information Use and Interagency Notices

Information collected will be used to verify applicants' identities, to investigate applicants' backgrounds, criminal records, and conduct since conviction, and to provide notice to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Attorneys' Offices, U.S. Probation Offices, and federal courts in the event of grants of executive clemency.

60-Day Public Comment and Minimizing Burden

The DOJ is soliciting public comments for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register and asks for feedback on ways to minimize respondent burden, including permitting electronic submission of responses.

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Key Dates

Published Date
10/21/2026

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
Agency
Justice Department
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