The Long Wait

Each stage of the federal sector EEO process brings an opportunity for delay. Below are the most recent figures for average processing times at each stage. Not all claimants go through every stage.

1. Pre-complaint counseling: 30-90 days
2. Pre-complaint alternative dispute resolution: 39 days
3. Complaint investigation by the accused federal agency: 267 days
4. Alternative dispute resolution during formal complaint process: 61 days
5. Agency final decision: 541 days
6. EEOC hearing decision: 421 days
7. Appellate processing time for the EEOC Office of Federal Operations: 285 days