Last reviewed: June 1, 2026 · Written by James Carter, Consumer Rights Researcher · Independent resource — not a government site
Report workplace harassment to the EEOC at eeoc.gov or call 1-800-669-4000. File within 180 days of the incident (300 days in most states). Filing is free and retaliation is illegal.
Quick answer: Report workplace harassment by filing a charge with the EEOC at eeoc.gov or calling 1-800-669-4000. You must file within 180 days of the incident (300 days in most states). You can also report internally to HR first — but you are not required to before going to the EEOC.
Workplace harassment is illegal under federal law when it is based on a protected characteristic — race, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or pregnancy. Harassment that creates a hostile work environment or results in adverse employment decisions is actionable. You have the right to report it without fear of retaliation.
What Qualifies as Illegal Workplace Harassment?
Not all rude or unpleasant behaviour at work is illegal harassment. To be illegal under federal law, harassment must be based on a protected characteristic AND be severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile work environment, or result in an adverse employment action (firing, demotion, pay cut). Examples include: unwanted sexual advances, offensive jokes about race or religion, repeated threats or intimidation, and physical assault or touching.
Where to Report Workplace Harassment
| Type of Harassment | Agency | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Discrimination-based harassment | EEOC | eeoc.gov | 1-800-669-4000 |
| Physical threats or assault | Local police + EEOC | 911 then EEOC |
| Safety-related harassment | OSHA | osha.gov | 1-800-321-6742 |
| Federal government employees | EEOC Federal Sector | eeoc.gov/federal-sector |
| Union members | NLRB | nlrb.gov | 1-844-762-6572 |
How to Report Workplace Harassment Step by Step
- Document every incident immediately. Write down dates, times, locations, exactly what was said or done, and the names of any witnesses. Save emails, texts, voicemails, and any physical evidence. A detailed log is your most powerful asset.
- Report to HR or your manager in writing. Most companies require you to report internally before legal action. Send an email to HR so you have a written record. Keep a copy outside your work email account. Note: reporting to HR is not required before filing with the EEOC.
- Request your company’s anti-harassment policy. Ask HR for a copy of the company’s harassment policy and complaint procedure. Note what steps they are supposed to take and hold them to it in writing.
- File a charge with the EEOC. Go to eeoc.gov or call 1-800-669-4000 to schedule an intake interview. You must file within 180 days of the last incident (300 days in states with their own anti-discrimination laws). Filing is free.
- File with your state civil rights agency simultaneously. Most states have their own agencies with stronger protections than federal law. The EEOC will often dual-file with your state agency automatically — confirm this when you file.
- Report physical threats or assault to police. If the harassment included physical contact, threats of violence, or stalking, file a police report immediately in addition to your EEOC charge. This is both a workplace and criminal matter.
- Document any retaliation after reporting. If your employer demotes you, reduces your hours, excludes you from meetings, or creates new reasons to discipline you after you report — document every instance. Retaliation is a separate federal violation and strengthens your case significantly.
- Consult an employment attorney. Many employment lawyers offer free initial consultations and work on contingency. An attorney can advise whether to pursue EEOC mediation, a state claim, or a private lawsuit — and what damages you may be entitled to.
EEOC Filing Deadlines by State
The deadline to file an EEOC charge is 180 days from the last incident in states without their own fair employment laws. In states that have their own agencies — including California (DFEH, 300 days), New York (DHR, 300 days), Texas (TWC, 300 days), and Florida (FCHR, 365 days) — the deadline extends to 300–365 days. Do not wait — file as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
For related guides see: How to Report Unfair Treatment at Work, How to Report Wage Theft, and our Workplace Reporting Hub.