Contact CBS News: Find the Right Reporter & Editorial Team

When you need to reach CBS News directly, understanding the best channels and expectations helps your inquiry stand out. This guide outlines practical ways to contact CBS News, what each method suits, and how to increase the likelihood of a meaningful response.

Below is a quick reference that matches common contact goals with the most effective approach and typical response considerations.

Breaking News and Urgent Inquiries

Phone Protocols for Urgent Stories

For breaking news, calling the CBS News assignment desk is often the fastest route to reach reporters or editors. Have a concise script ready: state who you are, what happened, where, when, and why it matters. Avoid long background until they ask, and keep your facts specific with source attribution.

What to Include When Calling

Lead with the most newsworthy element, confirm your contact number, and offer to send photos or documents if relevant. If you reach voicemail, leave a short, clear message with your name, number, and the single most critical fact so editors can call back quickly.

User-Generated Content and Submissions

Footage, Photos, and Citizen Reports

CBS News regularly accepts user-generated content, especially during major events. Use the designated email address with the subject line "User-Generated Content" and attach files with descriptive names. Include the date, time, location, and any context that helps verify authenticity.

Rights, Safety, and Expectations

Confirm that you own the content or have permission to share it, and note any visible people or property that may require additional consent. CBS News may edit for length and clarity, and they will credit submissions when possible; they may not respond to every file due to volume.

Corrections, Clarifications, and Accountability

How to Request a Correction

If you believe a segment or report contains an error, contact the Public Editor or ombuds team via the online correction form or email. Include the exact airdate, story title, time stamp, and evidence such as transcripts or documents that show the discrepancy.

Editorial Review Process

After receiving a submission, CBS News reviews factual accuracy, context, and legal considerations before responding. Detailed corrections can take several business days, and they will explain any limitations on updating older content.

Media Relations and Interview Requests

Pitching to CBS News Reporters and Programs

For organizations or individuals seeking coverage, email the relevant beat reporter or show segment producer with a clear news peg. Explain why the topic matters now, what is new, and why the source is authoritative in one concise paragraph.

Timing and Follow-Up Best Practices

Journalistic calendars are tight; send pitches early in the week and avoid holiday news cycles. Follow up once after 4–5 business days if there is no reply, and be ready to offer shorter alternatives like a brief quote or data point.

Practical Takeaways for Reaching CBS News Effectively

• Match your contact method to your goal: phone for urgent tips, email for submissions and corrections, forms for feedback.
• Prepare concise facts: who, what, where, when, why, and any evidence you can share.
• Use clear subject lines and precise timestamps to help editors prioritize.
• Respect editorial processes; acknowledge that volume and legal checks can slow responses.
• Verify permissions and rights before submitting content that includes people or private property.