Plain-English instructions, step-by-step checklists, and common mistakes to avoid for every form in the administrative remedy process - BP-8 through BP-11. Free, no sign-up required.
Important: This library provides general educational guidance only. BOP forms and procedures can change. Always verify the current form version with your unit counselor before filing. This is not legal advice. If your situation is complex or deadlines are at risk, read the step-by-step guide or consult an attorney.
Before you pick up a form, make sure you can check off everything on this list. Starting without these basics in place is one of the most common reasons cases go wrong.
The incident happened within the last 20 days (the BP-9 must be filed within 20 calendar days of the incident) - or you know exactly where you are in the timeline
You have identified one specific issue to address (not multiple)
You have the inmate's full legal name and BOP register number
You know the name of the facility and the unit counselor
You have a pen, paper, and a safe place to store copies
You understand what outcome you're asking for
You have read the instructions for the specific form you're filing
Click any form below to expand its full guide. Each guide includes instructions, a filing checklist, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
The BP-8 is an informal, verbal or written request to your unit counselor. Think of it as giving the facility one last chance to fix the problem before it becomes an official complaint. It's the first step in the process, and it must happen before anything else.
Request a BP-8 form from your unit counselor or housing unit officer.
Write clearly and briefly - describe what happened, when it happened, and what you want done about it.
Keep your description focused on one specific issue only.
Submit the form to your unit counselor and ask for a receipt or written acknowledgment.
Keep a copy of everything you submit.
If the counselor resolves the issue to your satisfaction, you're done. If not, move to the BP-9.
This is the official BOP "Inmate Request to Staff" form (BP-A0148), also called a "cop-out." This is the form used for the informal BP-8 step.
Need help with this form?
Our free guide explains how to complete, review, and file every form correctly — no missed deadlines, no form errors.
No legal knowledge required — the guide walks you through everything step by step.
Your BP-10 must be sent to the correct regional office for your facility. Here are all six BOP regions:
| Region | Location |
|---|---|
| Mid-Atlantic | Philadelphia, PA |
| North Central | Kansas City, KS |
| Northeast | Philadelphia, PA |
| South Central | Dallas, TX |
| Southeast | Atlanta, GA |
| Western | Dublin, CA |
Always verify the current mailing address with the BOP directly before sending your BP-10.
Before You File - Read This
Staff may refuse to accept your forms, claim they were never received, delay responses past the deadline, or retaliate against you for filing. These are documented, systemic problems - not exceptions. Our Institutional Roadblocks guide explains what to expect and how to protect yourself.
Read the Institutional Roadblocks GuideThis library has every form you need. Read the step-by-step guide to learn exactly how to complete each one, what to attach, and when to file it.