How to File a Complaint
If you feel you have been the victim of illegal discrimination, file a complaint or report a bias incident by:
- Calling (717) 787-4410 | (717) 787-7279 TTY users only phone, or
- Visiting one of our three regional offices. (Offices are currently closed to the public due to COVID-19 precautions. However, drop off boxes for required paperwork and forms are located in the lobby of the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh offices.)
- Complete and submit a questionnaire to start the process.
You have the right to file a complaint if you believe you have experienced illegal discrimination. The PHRC will investigate your complaint.
Learn more about the complaint investigation process
If you have dual-filed a complaint with PHRC and EEOC, please see EEOC's letter explaining its role concerning your complaint:
EEOC’s Letter to Complainant for complaints dual filed with EEOC (PDF)
You may discuss your concerns with a PHRC staff member, who will answer your questions and help you decide whether you should file a complaint.
- PHRC intake staff members are available to help you draft the wording of the complaint and prepare it in legal form for your verified signature.
- Before you sign the complaint, make sure that it is an accurate account of what happened to you, to the best of your knowledge and belief.
- Pennsylvania law provides penalties for persons who knowingly file false complaints.
Discrimination complaints must be filed within 180 days of the alleged act of harm (the discriminatory action or incident), unless you can convince the PHRC that you are legally justified in not filing within this period.
You have the right to be represented before the PHRC by a private attorney.
Language translation and services for visual and hearing disabilities are available upon request to those needing assistance filing a complaint.