How do I prove discrimination?

You can show direct evidence (discriminatory statements, policies) or circumstantial evidence (differential treatment, statistical patterns, pretext for stated reasons) [42 U.S.C. 2000e-2].

What happens after I file?

The agency investigates, attempts mediation or conciliation, and may issue findings. If unresolved, you receive a right-to-sue letter allowing you to file a lawsuit.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Pennsylvania Workplace Discrimination — Filing a Complaint

Q: What counts as workplace discrimination?

Discrimination occurs when an employer treats you less favorably because of a protected characteristic. Under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA), protected classes include: race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age (40 and older), sex, national origin, disability, use of guide or support animal, relationship or association with a disabled person — applies to employers with 4+ employees; adds ancestry and relationship/association protection beyond federal law [§ 43-955].

Q: Can I file with both the state agency and EEOC?

Yes. Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission is a deferral agency that cross-files with EEOC, extending the federal deadline to 300 days. Filing with one agency can often satisfy the requirements of the other through cross-filing agreements.

Protected classes, filing deadlines, and how to pursue a discrimination claim under Pennsylvania and federal law.

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) prohibits employment discrimination in Pennsylvania §43-955.

Protected Classes

Under Pennsylvania law, employers cannot discriminate based on: race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age (40 and older), sex, national origin, disability, use of guide or support animal, relationship or association with a disabled person — applies to employers with 4+ employees; adds ancestry and relationship/association protection beyond federal law.

Federal laws (Title VII, ADA, ADEA) provide additional protections for employees of employers with 15+ employees (20+ for age discrimination).

Types of Discrimination

Disparate treatment — intentional discrimination based on a protected characteristic

Disparate impact — neutral policies that disproportionately affect a protected group

Failure to accommodate — refusing reasonable accommodations for disability or religion

Harassment — creating a Hostile work environment based on a protected characteristic

Filing a Discrimination Complaint

You have 180 days to file with PHRC; 300 days with EEOC through dual filing §43-959. Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission is a deferral agency that cross-files with EEOC, extending the federal deadline to 300 days.

	Details
State Agency	Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC)
Federal Agency	EEOC
State Deadline	180 days to file with PHRC; 300 days with EEOC through dual filing §43-959
Federal Deadline	180 days (300 with deferral) [42 U.S.C. § 2000e-5]

⚠Filing deadlines are strictly enforced. Missing the deadline typically bars your claim entirely, regardless of its merits.

✓File with both the state agency and EEOC to preserve all options. A single filing can often be cross-filed with both agencies.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Employment Law)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Employment records

(pay stubs, contracts, offer letters)

Communication evidence

(emails, texts, performance reviews)

Witness information

(coworkers who can corroborate)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and employment situation.

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