FERPA Compliance: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act requires written consent from students before releasing educational information. Applies to all schools receiving federal funding and protects privacy of student education records.

ADA Considerations: Americans with Disabilities Act requires avoiding discriminatory language, prohibits disclosure of student's disabilities without explicit permission, and emphasizes focusing on abilities rather than limitations.

Title IX Requirements: Must avoid gender-based discrimination and use gender-neutral language where possible in the recommendation letter.

Fair Credit Reporting Act: If used for employment purposes, recommendation letters could be considered consumer reports. Must ensure truthful and accurate statements in compliance with FCRA.

Defamation Law Compliance: Must avoid potentially libelous statements, ensure all information is factual and verifiable, and maintain objectivity in assessments to prevent defamation claims.

State Privacy Laws: Consider additional state-specific privacy protections and requirements for educational records that may apply beyond federal regulations.

Best Practices Documentation: Maintain written student permission, stick to factual information, keep copies of recommendations, ensure honest assessment, and avoid irrelevant personal information.