How long does the typical EEOC take to process and resolve?

As of April 2015, a typical case filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or EEOC, takes six to 18 months to resolve. If the case can be resolved through mediation, however, it can usually be resolved in less than three months.

Any charge filed with the EEOC may be quickly dismissed if the EEOC does not have jurisdiction or the charge is untimely. If the charge proceeds through the handling process, it is first considered for mediation. Mediation allows you and your employer to reach voluntary settlement. If mediation is not advisable or does not succeed, your charge is given to an investigator. Investigations take, on average, 6 months to complete.