How to File a BOLI Complaint in Oregon: Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Answer: File discrimination complaints with Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) within 1 year of the violation. BOLI covers all employers with 1+ employees—broader than federal law. File online at oregon.gov/boli, by phone at 971-673-0761, or in person. BOLI investigates at no cost and can order remedies including back pay and damages.

BOLI is Oregon's primary agency for employment discrimination claims.

Before You File

Deadline is Critical

1-year deadline:

• Must file within 1 year of violation
• For continuing violations, 1 year from last incident
• Shorter than most states
• Don't wait

What BOLI Covers

Types of complaints:

• Employment discrimination
• Wage and hour violations
• Civil rights violations
• Housing discrimination

Who Can File

Eligible complainants:

• Current employees
• Former employees
• Job applicants
• Independent contractors (some protections)

Filing Your Complaint

Option 1: Online Filing

At oregon.gov/boli:

1. Go to BOLI website
2. Select "File a Complaint"
3. Choose complaint type
4. Complete online form
5. Submit supporting documents

Option 2: Phone Filing

Call BOLI:

• Phone: 971-673-0761
• Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
• Staff can help complete form
• Interpreter services available

Option 3: In-Person Filing

BOLI offices:

• Portland: 800 NE Oregon St, Suite 1045
• Salem: 3568 River Rd S
• Eugene: 1400 Executive Parkway, Suite 200

What to Include

Required Information

Basic details:

• Your contact information
• Employer name and address
• Dates of employment
• Date of discrimination

Description of Discrimination

Be specific:

• What happened
• When it happened
• Who was involved
• What was said or done

Supporting Evidence

Helpful documents:

• Employment records
• Performance reviews
• Emails or communications
• Witness names
• Medical records (if relevant)

After You File

Initial Review

BOLI will:

• Review your complaint
• Determine jurisdiction
• Contact you for additional information
• Notify employer

Investigation Process

Investigation steps:

• Interview complainant
• Interview employer
• Review documents
• Interview witnesses
• Analyze evidence

Timelines

Typical process:

• Initial contact: 2-4 weeks
• Investigation: 6-18 months
• Resolution varies

Possible Outcomes

Finding of Substantial Evidence

If BOLI finds evidence:

• Attempt conciliation
• May hold hearing
• Can order remedies
• Issue final order

Finding of No Substantial Evidence

If no evidence found:

• Case closed
• Right to appeal
• Can still file lawsuit
• 90 days to file in court

Settlement

Many cases settle:

• Negotiated resolution
• Faster than hearing
• Flexible remedies
• Confidentiality possible

BOLI Remedies

What BOLI Can Order

Available remedies:

• Back pay
• Reinstatement
• Compensatory damages
• Civil penalties
• Training requirements
• Policy changes

What BOLI Cannot Do

Limitations:

• No punitive damages
• Cannot imprison
• Limited emotional distress damages

BOLI vs. EEOC

Key Differences

When to Choose BOLI

Better for:

• Small employers (under 15)
• Oregon-specific protections
• Sexual orientation/gender identity
• Longer deadline

When to Choose EEOC

Better for:

• Federal law claims
• Multi-state employers
• Title VII violations
• Potential federal lawsuit

Filing with Both

Worksharing agreement:

• BOLI and EEOC share complaints
• File with one, cross-file with other
• Preserves both options
• Indicate on form

Tips for Strong Complaint

Document Thoroughly

Include:

• Specific dates and times
• Exact quotes when possible
• Names of witnesses
• Chronological timeline

Be Factual

Avoid:

• Speculation
• Assumptions
• Irrelevant information
• Emotional language

Preserve Evidence

Keep copies of:

• All documents submitted
• Communications with BOLI
• Employment records
• Electronic evidence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing Deadline

Critical:

• Mark 1-year deadline
• File well before deadline
• Don't wait for "perfect" evidence

Incomplete Information

Problems:

• Delays investigation
• May require supplementation
• Could weaken case

Not Following Up

Stay engaged:

• Respond to BOLI promptly
• Provide requested information
• Keep contact info updated

Retaliation During Investigation

Protection Available

Cannot retaliate for:

• Filing BOLI complaint
• Participating in investigation
• Being a witness

If Retaliation Occurs

Steps to take:

• Document immediately
• Report to BOLI investigator
• May be separate violation
• Strengthens overall case

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file with BOLI?

1 year from the date of discrimination.

Does filing cost anything?

No. BOLI complaints are free to file.

Do I need a lawyer to file?

No, but an attorney can help strengthen your case.

Can I file anonymously?

No. Your identity will be shared with employer during investigation.

What if BOLI doesn't find evidence?

You can still file a lawsuit in court within 90 days.

Related Topics

• Oregon Workplace Discrimination
• Oregon Sexual Harassment
• Oregon Workplace Retaliation
• Oregon Employment Law Hub

Take Action

To file a BOLI complaint:

1. Confirm within 1-year deadline
2. Gather documentation
3. Choose filing method
4. Complete complaint form
5. Submit and track case

Legal Disclaimer

This article provides general information about filing BOLI complaints in Oregon and is not legal advice. For specific advice, consult a licensed Oregon employment attorney.

For official information:

• Oregon BOLI: https://www.oregon.gov/boli | 971-673-0761