Is there a time limit for filing a sexual harassment claim?
• A: Yes, you have a limited amount of time to file a charge of sexual harassment. Generally, you need to file your charge with the EEOC within 180 days from the day the harassment took place. The 180 day deadline may be extended to 300 days by state laws. The EEOC doesn’t accept charges online. However, there is an online assessment tool to help you decide if the EEOC can help you. After that, you can complete an Intake Questionnaire that you may print and either bring or mail to the appropriate EEOC field office to begin the process of filing a charge. Federal employees and job applicants usually must contact an agency EEO Counselor for the area they work or where they applied for a job within 45 days from the day the sexual harassment happened. Each federal agency must post information about how to contact the agency’s EEO Office. If you plan on filing a lawsuit in federal or state court, you must first file a formal sexual harassment complaint with the EEOC and/or your state’s fair
