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Learn how employment discrimination claims work in the U.S., what laws protect you, and how to file a complaint with the EEOC.
Employment discrimination occurs when an employer treats a worker or job applicant unfairly based on a protected characteristic. Federal law prohibits discrimination in hiring, firing, pay, promotions, job assignments, and other terms of employment.
Several key federal statutes cover employment discrimination:
Many states have additional laws that expand these protections, often covering smaller employers or additional characteristics such as sexual orientation or marital status.
If your claim succeeds, possible remedies include:
A: Federal law generally applies to employers with 15 or more employees (10 for the ADEA). State laws often cover smaller employers, so check your state's rules.
A: Federal anti-discrimination laws primarily protect employees. Independent contractors have limited federal protections, though some states offer broader coverage.
A: No. Retaliation for filing a complaint or cooperating with an investigation is independently illegal under federal law.
A: Investigations vary widely — from a few months to over a year. You may request a Right to Sue letter after 180 days if the EEOC has not resolved your charge.
A: You can file without an attorney, but employment discrimination cases can be complex. Consulting a lawyer before filing is strongly recommended.
Disclaimer: This article provides general legal information about employment discrimination for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, and laws vary significantly by state and circumstance. Consult a licensed employment attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
ROY offers free AI-powered case analysis — find out where your employment discrimination claim stands in minutes.
This is intentional discrimination — an employer treats you differently because of a protected characteristic.
A neutral workplace policy that disproportionately harms a protected group may still be unlawful, even if unintentional.
Severe or pervasive workplace harassment based on a protected characteristic — including sexual harassment — is a form of discrimination.
It is illegal for an employer to punish you for reporting discrimination, filing a complaint, or participating in an investigation.
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이 문서는 일반적인 법률 정보 제공 목적으로 작성되었으며, 개별 사건에 대한 법률 자문, 법적 조언, 또는 결과 보장이 아닙니다. 구체적인 법적 사안에 대해서는 반드시 자격을 갖춘 법률 전문가와 상담하시기 바랍니다. ROY Legal Insights는 정보 제공 서비스이며, 법무법인이 아닙니다. 최초 발행일: 2026.08.18.