3 months less one day’ time limit for Tribunal claims? Not for much longer – here’s what the Employment Rights Bill proposes to change for an employee bringing a claim:
At the moment, most tribunal claims need to be filed within three months from the date of the act being complained about. This includes common claims like unfair dismissal, discrimination, and deductions from wages. There are a few exceptions, such as claims for unpaid redundancy pay, which have a six-month limit, but generally, employees must act quickly to meet the three-month deadline. If you miss the deadline, you risk losing your chance to take the matter to tribunal, unless you can show exceptional circumstances.
What does the Bill propose?
The Employment Rights Bill aims to give employees more time to bring claims forward. Under the proposed changes, the time limit for most tribunal claims will be extended from three months to six months. This would apply to the majority of claims, including those for discrimination, unfair dismissal, harassment, and other workplace issues. The goal is to allow people more time to gather evidence, seek advice, and decide whether to proceed with a tribunal claim. For workers who might not immediately realise they’ve been treated unfairly or who need extra time to take action, this extension could make a significant difference.
When is this likely to come into effect?
The Bill proposes that this extended time frame will come into effect in October 2026 – although this remains uncertain until the Bill gains Royal Assent. This is a welcome change for many, as it reduces the pressure of having to act so quickly. For employers, this extension means a longer period of uncertainty, as claims could be brought much later than before.
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