How long do I have to file a workplace discrimination complaint in California?

Three years, for most claims. Government Code section 12960 gives an employee three years from the last discriminatory act to file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD, formerly DFEH) for discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under the Fair Employment and Housing Act. Filing with the CRD is a prerequisite to suing; most claimants request an immediate right-to-sue notice, after which they have one year to file in superior court (Government Code section 12965). The federal track through the EEOC is much shorter — generally 300 days in California — but FEHA usually offers broader coverage: it applies to employers with five or more employees (harassment claims reach employers of any size) and has no cap on compensatory damages. The three-year window is measured from each unlawful act, though continuing-violation doctrine can sweep in older related conduct. Waiting also erodes evidence, so earlier action is stronger action.

Authority: Cal. Gov. Code § 12960