EEOC
The EEOC is the federal agency that enforces laws against workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information.
us-specific
Category
intermediate
Difficulty
6 min read
Read time
2025-01-15
Updated
Definition
Short definition
The EEOC is the federal agency that enforces laws against workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information.
Detailed explanation
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against job applicants or employees.
The EEOC enforces Title VII (race, color, religion, sex, national origin), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), and Equal Pay Act.
The agency investigates discrimination charges, provides guidance and outreach, and can file lawsuits on behalf of individuals or the public interest.
Practical guidance
How it works
Aggrieved individuals file charges with EEOC. Employer responds. EEOC investigates, attempts resolution, and issues right-to-sue letter or may litigate.
Best practices
Train on anti-discrimination policies
Document employment decisions
Respond promptly to charges
Maintain required records
Conduct internal investigations properly
Legal context
Legal basis
Title VII, ADEA, ADA, GINA, Equal Pay Act
Jurisdiction: US Federal
Key provisions
Prohibits discrimination in all employment decisions
Covers employers with 15+ employees (20+ for age)
Requires EEO-1 reporting for larger employers
Charge filing within 180/300 days
Conciliation attempts before litigation
Can file suit on individuals behalf
Official source
Frequently asked questions
How long do you have to file an EEOC charge?
Generally 180 days from the discriminatory act, extended to 300 days if a state or local agency enforces a similar law. The deadline is strict, so early filing is recommended.
What happens after filing an EEOC charge?
EEOC notifies the employer, may seek mediation, investigates if needed, and either dismisses, finds cause, attempts conciliation, or issues a right-to-sue letter allowing private lawsuit.