How Long EEOC Investigation?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that prohibit employment discrimination. If you believe you have been discriminated against in the workplace, you may file a charge with the EEOC, which will initiate an investigation into your claims. But how long does an EEOC investigation typically take?
Initial Investigation Period
The EEOC aims to complete its initial investigation within 180 days from the date you file your charge. However, this timeframe can be extended in certain circumstances. Extensions can be granted if:
- The parties involved in the investigation request an extension
- Additional evidence is needed to make a determination
- The EEOC is experiencing delays in its investigation
**Factors that Can Affect the Length of the Investigation**
Several factors can influence the length of the EEOC investigation, including:
- Complexity of the case: Cases involving multiple claims, multiple parties, or complex legal issues may take longer to investigate.
- Availability of evidence: The availability and quality of evidence can impact the speed of the investigation. If key witnesses or documents are difficult to obtain, the investigation may take longer.
- Coordination with other agencies: If the EEOC is working with other agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the investigation may take longer.
What Happens During the Investigation?
During the investigation, the EEOC will:
- Gather information: Collect relevant documents, testimony, and other evidence to determine whether discrimination occurred
- Interview witnesses: Talk to employees, managers, and other individuals with relevant information
- Review policies and procedures: Evaluate the employer’s policies and procedures to determine if they are discriminatory or violative of federal laws
- Analyze the evidence: Review the collected evidence to determine whether a violation of federal law occurred
Possible Outcomes
After completing the investigation, the EEOC may:
- Issue a finding of no violation: If the EEOC determines that no violation of federal law occurred, you will receive a Dismissal and Notice of Right to Sue letter. This letter explains that you have the right to file a lawsuit against the employer in federal court.
- Issue a finding of violation: If the EEOC determines that a violation of federal law occurred, you will receive a Letter of Determination. This letter explains the violation and outlines the required remedial actions, such as back pay, job reinstatement, or training for the employer.
- Conduct a settlement negotiation: The EEOC may attempt to negotiate a settlement with the employer on your behalf.
Average Length of EEOC Investigation
According to the EEOC’s 2020 Performance and Accountability Report, the average length of an EEOC investigation is 245 days. However, the actual length of the investigation can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned earlier.
Table: Average Length of EEOC Investigations
| Year | Average Length of Investigation (Days) |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 245 |
| 2019 | 235 |
| 2018 | 228 |
| 2017 | 222 |
| 2016 | 216 |
Conclusion
The length of an EEOC investigation can vary depending on the complexity of the case, availability of evidence, and other factors. While the EEOC aims to complete its initial investigation within 180 days, extensions can be granted in certain circumstances. If you have filed a charge with the EEOC, it is essential to remain patient and cooperate fully with the investigation to ensure a thorough and effective resolution of your claims.
Additional Resources
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. (n.d.). Filing a Charge of Employment Discrimination. Retrieved from https://www.eeoc.gov/facts/filing-charge.cfm
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. (n.d.). How the EEOC Investigates. Retrieved from https://www.eeoc.gov/facts/how-eeoc-investigates.cfm
- United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. (2020). Performance and Accountability Report. Retrieved from https://www.eeoc.gov/facts/performance-accountability-report.cfm
