As of November 1, 2017, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has launched a new system for filing and tracking workplace discrimination charges. The system grants individuals a convenient way to file charges online.
The system, the EEOC Public Portal, allows those who are considering filing a sexual harassment, glass ceiling/promotion discrimination case or other employment discrimination claim to connect with the EEOC online. You can submit initial inquiries as well as request an intake review with the agency. These steps are generally the first to take toward submitting an employment discrimination claim.
Once you file your charge, you can use the portal to keep contact with the EEOC, keep your contact information updated, begin the process of mediation for your claim, upload documents related to your claim and review documents or messages related to the charge.
The EEOC hopes that the new system will help the organization respond to the huge volume of calls it receives every year and provide a more streamlined, efficient service for victims of discrimination and harassment in the workplace.
What Happens Once I File a Charge with the EEOC?
Once your charge is filed, the EEOC will review your claim and may contact you to try and settle the claim with your employer. Failing this, the EEOC may decide to file a lawsuit on your behalf or may issue you a Notice of Right to Sue to proceed with your claim yourself.
If you believe you have been discriminated against at work, know that you have rights under state and federal law. Speak to an employment discrimination attorney in your area to review your rights and determine whether you may have a case moving forward.