Program Discrimination Complaint Filing

How do I file a USDA program discrimination complaint? Answer

How do I check the status of my program discrimination complaint? Answer

How long do I have to file a USDA program discrimination complaint? Answer

How do I request a waiver of the 180-day filing deadline? Answer

Can I send my USDA program discrimination complaint to the Office of Adjudication and Compliance by email? Answer

If I file a lawsuit in court after having filed a discrimination complaint with the Office of Adjudication and Compliance, will the court waive the time limits for filing the lawsuit? Answer

Where do I mail my program discrimination complaint? Answer

How do I file a USDA program discrimination complaint?

To file a program discrimination complaint, write a letter to the Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance. For additional information about what to include in your letter, see How To File a Program Discrimination Complaint, on our Web site. You may also contact the Office of Adjudication and Compliance Customer Service Unit at (202) 260-1026, (866) 632-9992 (toll free), or (202) 401-0216 (TDD). You may also send an email to the Customer Service Unit at CR@usda.gov.

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How do I check the status of my program discrimination complaint?

To check the status of your program discrimination complaint contact the Office of Adjudication and Compliance Rights Customer Service Unit at (202) 260-1026, (866) 632-9992 (toll free), or (202) 401-0216 (TDD). You may also send an email to the Customer Service Unit at CR@USDA.gov.

How long do I have to file a USDA program discrimination complaint?

The Office of Adjudication and Compliance has authority to investigate actions that took place no more than 180 days prior to the filing of your complaint, unless a waiver of this filing deadline is granted.

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How do I request a waiver of the 180-day filing deadline?

A waiver may be granted for the following reasons:

• The discriminatory act could not reasonably be expected to be known within the 180-day period;
• Illness or incapacitation;
• The same complaint was filed with another Federal, state, or local agency; or
• Any other basis determined by the Director of the Office of Adjudication and Compliance, USDA. If you wish to request a waiver, make your request in your complaint letter and be sure to explain why you did not file within the 180-day period. For more information contact Office of Adjudication and Compliance Customer Service Unit at (202) 260-1026, (866) 632-9992 (toll free), or (202) 401-0216 (TDD). You may also send an email to the Customer Service Unit at CR@USDA.gov.

Can I send my USDA program discrimination complaint to the Office of Adjudication and Compliance by email?

No, a USDA program discrimination complaint cannot be sent by email. The Office of Adjudication and Compliance requires an original, signed document to initiate the complaint process.

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If I file a lawsuit in court after having filed a discrimination complaint with the Office of Adjudication and Compliance, will the court waive the time limits for filing the lawsuit?

Filing a discrimination complaint with the Office of Adjudication and Compliance does not waive requirements for filing a lawsuit. You may wish to consult a lawyer at your earliest convenience to ensure that your rights are preserved.

Where do I mail my program discrimination complaint?

Mail your program discrimination complaint to
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20250-9410

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