How Long Do I Have to Report Sexual Harassment?

If you believe you have been sexually harassed at your workplace, immediate action is encouraged. Speaking about your harassment can be very difficult, however, there is a statute of limitations for claims against employers. According to the EEOC, a charge in California must be filed within 300 days from the date of the alleged violation, in order to protect the person's rights.

Note that exceptions can be made if you work for the federal government or are an employee of another government entity. Reporting a sexual harassment claim at work is not as simple as it sounds given that the person affected may not be sure that they have a case. In many cases, it is also difficult to collect evidence that the incident happened, however, no matter the situation, if you felt like you were violated by an employer, it's important to report it immediately.

Reporting a sexual harassment claim can be done through your Human Resources office or you can go directly to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing if your company doesn't take action after you file your claims.

If you are unsure of what to do, or if you have questions regarding a claim, don't hesitate to contact a local employment attorney that can help you figure out your options for free. Sexual harassment is not something that can be taken lightly and no matter the situation, you should always feel safe at your workplace.