California: discrimination deadlines
How long you have to file a workplace discrimination charge with the federal EEOC and with your state's civil rights agency.
| Deadline to file with the EEOC | 300 days |
|---|---|
| State agency | Civil Rights Department (CRD) |
| Deadline to file with the state agency | 3 years |
| State law | Gov. Code § 12960 |
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in California.
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How we checked this
The EEOC rule is from eeoc.gov: 180 days, extended to 300 where a state or local agency enforces a similar law. State agency deadlines were compared across two sources and confirmed on agency websites where they differed (Hawaii, Illinois, Tennessee). Federal employees follow a different 45-day process. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site From a statute-cited table one detailed source Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.