You usually start by filing an employment discrimination charge with a government agency, not by going straight to court.

Where you file first

For most private‑sector and many public‑sector workers in the U.S., the initial place to file is:

  • A local or state Fair Employment Practices Agency (FEPA), or
  • A regional office of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

These agencies often have “work‑sharing agreements,” so filing with one generally counts as filing with the other when both state and federal laws apply.

Typical paths

  • Private‑sector employee (non‑federal): File a charge with the EEOC or your state/local FEPA; you usually must do this before suing under federal anti‑discrimination laws.
  • State or local government employee: Often file with a state or local equal employment or human rights agency (a FEPA), which may also dual‑file with EEOC if federal law is involved.
  • Federal employee or job applicant: Start with the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) office at your agency, usually within 45 days of the discriminatory act.
  • If specific laws apply (for example, USERRA for military‑related discrimination): You may need to file with a different agency such as the U.S. Department of Labor’s VETS program.

Because deadlines can be short (often 180–300 days from the discriminatory act, and only 45 days for federal employees), it is important to contact the appropriate agency quickly.

This is general information, not legal advice. For personalized guidance, you should consult an employment or civil‑rights attorney in your state.