How to File an EEOC Discrimination Complaint

What Is the EEOC?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency that enforces laws against workplace discrimination. Filing with the EEOC is often a prerequisite to filing a lawsuit for discrimination.

Steps to File

1. Contact the EEOC: You can file online, by phone, or in person at an EEOC field office.
2. Provide information: Your name and contact info, employer name and contact info, description of the discrimination, dates of the discriminatory acts.
3. EEOC investigation: The EEOC will investigate and may attempt mediation.
4. Right to sue: If the EEOC does not resolve the matter, you'll receive a "right to sue" letter allowing you to file a lawsuit.

Deadlines

In California, you generally have 300 days to file an EEOC charge. However, some claims have shorter deadlines. Consult an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing deadlines.