Timeline and Deadlines for Different Types of Harassment

Federal Filing Deadlines by Protected Class

Standard EEOC Deadlines:

- 180 days in states without state civil rights agencies - 300 days in states with state civil rights agencies - Deadlines apply to all protected classes under federal law

Special Considerations by Type:

- Pregnancy: File before or after pregnancy/maternity leave - Disability: Consider ongoing accommodation issues - Religion: Document seasonal or holiday-related patterns - Age: Note if harassment increased near significant birthdays

State Law Variations

Enhanced Protections: Many states provide broader protection than federal law: - Additional protected classes (sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status) - Longer filing deadlines - Lower thresholds for hostile environment claims - Additional remedies and damages Important Research Steps: - Identify your state's civil rights agency - Research state-specific protected classes - Understand state filing procedures and deadlines - Consider dual filing (state and federal) options