Filing a Complaint

Under the Human Rights Law in New York, every citizen has an “equal opportunity to enjoy a full and productive life.”

This law protects you from discrimination in areas such as employment, education, credit, and purchasing or renting a home or commercial space based on your:

  • Race
  • Creed
  • Color
  • National origin
  • Sexual orientation
  • Military status
  • Sex
  • Age
  • Marital status
  • Domestic violence victim status
  • Disability
  • Pregnancy-related condition
  • Predisposing genetic characteristics
  • Prior arrest or conviction record
  • Gender Identity or Expression
  • Familial status
  • Lawful source of income (in housing only)
  • Retaliation for opposing unlawful discriminatory practices

If someone feels they have been discriminated against they can file a complaint with the Division of Human Rights.  Once a complaint is filed, the Division of Human Rights will investigate and may present the case in a public hearing.

How To

  1. Follow this step by step process to file a complaint with the Division of Human Rights.
  2. Fill out the complaint form, answering all of the questions and sign the form. If possible, type the form. If you are filling out the form by hand, please print.
  3. Attach copies of any documents that you think will help the Division investigate the case (pay stub, letter of termination, performance evaluation disciplinary notice, etc).
  4. Return the completed complaint form to the Division. You may return the complaint by postal mail to the regional office nearest you, email your complaint to complaints@dhr.ny.gov, or fax it to (718) 741-8322.
  5. Due to restrictions imposed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, you may return the complaint form without notarization. Division staff will resolve notarization after the investigation commences. Please note that all complaints must be signed before submission.
  6. Keep a copy of your complaint and copies of any documents you attach for your own records.

For more information - Frequently Asked Questions.

Please contact the Orange County Human Rights Commission if you would like assistance with filing the Complaint, or if you have questions about Human Rights violations. To make an appointment, or for more information, you may call 845-615-3680.