When to file a new charge of discrimination?

In some cases, we may decide it is better for you to file a new charge of discrimination. If new events are added to your charge or a new charge is filed, we will send the new or amended charge to the employer and investigate the new events along with the rest.

What happens if you make a complaint about discrimination?

Many employers have a hard time believing that discrimination or harassment could be happening right under their noses. As a result, they often fail to investigate complaints, assuming that they could not possibly be true. Unfortunately, failing to investigate a complaint is a surefire way to land in court.

What to do when an employee complains about harassment?

When an employee comes to you with concerns about discrimination or harassment, be understanding. An employee who sees that you are taking the problem seriously is less likely to escalate the issue to a government agency or to court. Don’t shoot the messenger.

What happens if you file a complaint against a harasser?

Worse, if too many details about the complaint are leaked, you may be accused of damaging the reputation of the alleged victim or alleged harasser — and get slapped with a defamation lawsuit. Avoid these problems by insisting on confidentiality and practicing it in your investigation.

What’s the deadline to complain about age discrimination?

The deadline is not extended if only a local law prohibits age discrimination. Note: Federal employees and job applicants have a different complaint process, and generally must contact an agency EEO Counselor within 45 days.

When do you have to file a discrimination charge?

In general, you need to file a charge within 180 calendar days from the day the discrimination took place. The 180 calendar day filing deadline is extended to 300 calendar days if a state or local agency enforces a law that prohibits employment discrimination on the same basis. The rules are slightly different for age discrimination charges.

When is it illegal to file a harassment complaint?

It becomes unlawful when enduring it becomes a condition for employment, or when the harassing conduct is so extreme that it creates an adverse or intimidating working environment. Before filing a complaint, you should be absolutely sure that what you experienced was illegal.

What are the procedures for discrimination and harassment?

Fair and prompt consideration shall be given to all complaints in accordance with the procedures set forth. These procedures may be utilized by any employee, applicant for employment or student who believes they have been subjected to discrimination or harassment.