What counts as workplace discrimination?

Discrimination occurs when an employer treats you less favorably because of a protected characteristic. Under the Texas Commission on Human Rights Act (TCHRA), protected classes include: race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, age (40+), genetic information — applies to employers with 15+ employees; mirrors federal title vii protections [§ 21.051].

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

Texas Workplace Discrimination — Filing a Complaint

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

Yes. TWC Civil Rights Division is a deferral agency with the EEOC under a worksharing agreement; charges are automatically cross-filed; dual filing extends 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 Texas and federal law.

The Texas Commission on Human Rights Act (TCHRA) prohibits employment discrimination in Texas §21.051.

Protected Classes

Under Texas law, employers cannot discriminate based on: race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, age (40+), genetic information — applies to employers with 15+ employees; mirrors federal title vii protections.

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 the TWC Civil Rights Division, or 300 days with the EEOC through dual filing §21.202. TWC Civil Rights Division is a deferral agency with the EEOC under a worksharing agreement; charges are automatically cross-filed; dual filing extends the federal deadline to 300 days.

	Details
State Agency	Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division
Federal Agency	EEOC
State Deadline	180 days to file with the TWC Civil Rights Division, or 300 days with the EEOC through dual filing §21.202
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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