How long does an employee have to file a claim for discrimination?

The timeline for filing a discrimination claim is crucial for both employees and employers to understand their rights and responsibilities in California. In California, an individual typically has three years to file a claim for employment discrimination under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) if the discrimination is based on certain protected categories, such as race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and more.

This three-year period allows employees sufficient time to gather evidence, consult with legal counsel, and file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or in court. It's important for employees to be aware of this timeframe as failing to file within three years may result in losing the right to pursue their claim.

In contrast, shorter timeframes, such as one or two years, are often associated with different types of claims or other legal actions, which do not apply to the broader scope of employment discrimination claims outlined in FEHA. Understanding this specific time limit helps ensure that individuals can take necessary actions to protect their rights under employment law.