How long do I have to file a workplace harassment claim?
It depends on your state: California gives you 3 years, Texas as little as 180 days, Washington 6 months at the agency (but 3 years to sue directly), and Nevada 300 days. The federal EEOC window is 300 days — and federal employees get just 45 days.
Why the answer is "it depends" — and why that's dangerous
Workplace harassment claims run on multiple clocks simultaneously: a state agency deadline, a federal EEOC deadline, a post-notice lawsuit deadline, and sometimes a direct-suit deadline. Miss one and that route closes — Texas law says untimely complaints shall be dismissed. The clocks also start at different moments and can be paused ("tolled") in specific situations.
The four states below cover our practice area. See the full comparison table →
California: 3 years — the country's longest
File with the Civil Rights Department within 3 years of the harassment. After a right-to-sue notice: 1 year to sue. Harassment is covered at ANY employer size. New tolling rules (SB 477, 2026) can extend windows in specific cases.
Texas: 180 days — the trap
General harassment claims: 180 days with the TWC. Sexual harassment: 300 days (a 2021 change). Administrative exhaustion is required, and untimely complaints must be dismissed. After right-to-sue: 60 days.
Washington: 6 months — but with an escape hatch
The state agency window is 6 months, but Washington uniquely allows a direct lawsuit within 3 years with NO agency filing. Seattle workers also get an 18-month city option. Missing the agency window does not end a Washington case.
Nevada: 300 days — online only
File with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission within 300 days — the agency accepts complaints online only. After a right-to-sue notice: just 90 days to sue.
When does the clock actually start?
Generally from the most recent incident — which helps when harassment is ongoing. But waiting costs evidence, witnesses, and leverage even when the deadline is years away. The strongest cases are built early. If any of these clocks might apply to you, a free consultation can map them in fifteen minutes.