What to ask for in an EEOC settlement?

Asked by: Dr. Van Cormier  |  Last update: March 28, 2025
Score: 5/5 (66 votes)

The following is a breakdown of key points that influence discrimination settlement amounts.
  • Lost Wages and Benefits. ...
  • Emotional Distress and Mental Anguish. ...
  • Legal Fees and Court Costs. ...
  • Punitive Damages. ...
  • Job Reinstatement or Policy Changes. ...
  • Understand Your Worth. ...
  • Gather Strong Evidence. ...
  • Be Ready to Compromise.

How much should I ask for in a discrimination settlement?

Average Disability Discrimination Settlements in California

The average settlement for a disability discrimination case can range from around $25,000 to $500,000. Less complex cases often settle for about $100,000 or less, while more involved cases can exceed $1,000,000.

What makes a strong EEOC case?

The EEOC bases its investigations on the facts presented by the employee. Without strong evidence, even legitimate claims may be dismissed. A compelling case demonstrates the actions taken against you, provides context, and establishes a clear connection to discrimination or retaliation.

What is the average EEOC settlement amount?

The average settlement for employment discrimination claims is about $40,000, according to the EEOC. While many cases settle out of court, some proceed to trial, making settlement amounts variable.

How do you negotiate a discrimination settlement?

How to Settle a Discrimination Lawsuit
  1. Seek Legal Counsel. Hiring an experienced attorney specializing in discrimination cases is always best for employment discrimination cases. ...
  2. Gather Evidence. ...
  3. Review the Complaint. ...
  4. Negotiate a Settlement. ...
  5. Review and Sign the Settlement Agreement. ...
  6. Compliance and Follow-Up.

EEOC Settlements & Counter-Offers: Some Tips from Employee to Employee

40 related questions found

What is a good settlement offer?

A reasonable settlement offer is one that includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. While it varies from case to case, an experienced personal injury lawyers can help you find a reasonable amount for your case.

What can I ask for in an EEOC settlement?

Here are a few things you can ask for in a settlement:
  • Punitive Damages. If an employer deliberately and maliciously discriminates, you may be able to seek punitive damages on top of other compensation. ...
  • Economic Damages. ...
  • Non-Economic Compensatory Damages. ...
  • Attorney's Fees.

What are the odds of winning the EEOC case?

Q: What Are the Chances of Winning an EEOC Case? A: The EEOC has a very high success rate when it comes to court decisions, reaching favorable outcomes in nearly 96% of all district court cases stemming from EEOC complaints.

How do I win an EEOC settlement?

Tips to Strengthen Your EEOC Complaint and Improve Your Chances of Winning
  1. Act Promptly and Meet Deadlines. ...
  2. Understand Your Rights and Protections. ...
  3. Gather and Preserve Evidence. ...
  4. Be Thorough and Detailed in Your Complaint. ...
  5. Consider Consulting a Federal Employment Attorney. ...
  6. Stay Engaged and Responsive.

What is the maximum payout for EEOC?

When it comes to California discrimination lawsuits, the potential payout varies greatly depending on the company's size. Take small businesses with fewer than 100 employees - they're looking at a maximum payout of $50,000. But scale up to 101-200 employees, and that number jumps to $100,000.

What happens when the EEOC finds an employer guilty?

When the EEOC finds an employer guilty, they may attempt conciliation to negotiate changes in procedures and remedies for those affected; if unsuccessful, the victim may file a lawsuit or request the EEOC to file one on their behalf.

What words scare human resources?

Words like "harassment," "discrimination," and "lawsuit" are heavily loaded with legal implications, which can put HR on high alert. By using descriptive, neutral language, you can convey your concerns without triggering a defensive reaction.

What is the limit on EEOC damages?

Limits On Compensatory & Punitive Damages

For employers with 15-100 employees, the limit is $50,000. For employers with 101-200 employees, the limit is $100,000. For employers with 201-500 employees, the limit is $200,000. For employers with more than 500 employees, the limit is $300,000.

How much money should I ask for in a settlement?

Ask for more than what you think you'll get

There's no precise formula, but it's generally recommended that personal injury plaintiffs ask for about 75% to 100% more than what they hope to receive. In other words, if you think your lawsuit might be worth $10,000, ask for $17,500 to $20,000.

Does EEOC negotiate settlements?

An Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) administrative judge may suspend a hearing to allow the parties to settle a case and will accept a settlement to resolve the case at any time before a final decision is reached. The sooner a settlement is reached the better.

How much can I sue my employer for emotional distress?

The second type of emotional distress claim is one that is worth more than $50,000 up to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the factual circumstances. You would need one or more medical opinions to support this claim and be prepared to have those medical advisors testify in court.

Are EEOC settlements taxable?

The IRS specifically states, "If you receive a settlement in an employment-related lawsuit; for example, for unlawful discrimination or involuntary termination, the portion of the proceeds that is for lost wages (i.e., severance pay, back pay, front pay) is taxable wages and subject to the social security wage base and ...

What is the average EEOC mediation settlement amount?

Though the EEOC does not report official average settlement amount numbers, the average monetary payout of a settled case, according to these numbers, would be $24,968.11. Keep in mind, however, that not all EEOC settlements involve monetary payouts.

How long does it take to get EEOC settlement?

On average, we take approximately 10 months to investigate a charge. We are often able to settle a charge faster through mediation (usually in less than 3 months). You can check the status of your charge by using EEOC's Online Charge Status System.

How long does it take for an EEOC judge to make a decision?

The administrative judge (AJ) will issue a decision within 180 days of receipt of the complaint file from the agency. Within 40 days of receipt of the AJ's decision, the Agency will provide a final decision either accepting (in part or in whole) or rejecting the AJ's decision.

What is the most common EEOC claim?

Most workers speak up about retaliation

In 2022, the most recent year with data available, there was little question that retaliation claims as the most common issue brought to the EEOC's attention. The agency found that 51.6% of the reports it investigated involved retaliation.

Does the EEOC get you money?

If the EEOC finds discrimination, we will work with your employer to fix the situation. You could receive money damages as part of that process. We also can seek promotions, reinstatement, and other workplace changes for you.

Should I agree to EEOC mediation?

Yes. Participants in the EEOC's mediation program indicate a high degree of satisfaction with the program. It is a fair and efficient process that can avoid a lengthy investigation and the possibility of unnecessary litigation.

What makes a strong retaliation case?

What Makes a Strong Retaliation Case? A strong retaliation case has clear evidence linking an employee's protected action, like reporting harassment, to an adverse reaction from the employer. Demonstrating this connection can lead to a successful retaliation settlement.

What do EEOC settlements look like?

Settlements of EEO disputes may contain monetary payments that are independent of any personnel action, provided that the monetary payment does not exceed the amount of back pay, attorney's fees, costs, or damages the employee would have been entitled to in the case if discrimination had been actually found.