If you believe your employer has treated you unlawfully, you may be able to bring a claim before a UK Employment Tribunal. Employment Tribunals deal with workplace disputes such as unfair dismissal, workplace discrimination, unpaid wages, breach of contract, whistleblowing, and unlawful deductions from pay.
This guide explains exactly how to make an Employment Tribunal claim in the UK, the deadlines you must meet, and what happens after you submit your case.
What Is an Employment Tribunal?
An Employment Tribunal is an independent judicial body that resolves disputes between employees, workers, employers, trade unions, and job applicants. The tribunal hears evidence from both parties and decides whether employment law has been breached.
Common Employment Tribunal claims include:
- Unfair dismissal
- Constructive dismissal
- Workplace discrimination
- Harassment and victimisation
- Whistleblowing detriment or dismissal
- Unpaid wages
- Holiday pay disputes
- Redundancy pay disputes
- Breach of employment contract
- Equal pay claims
Employment Tribunal Time Limits
One of the most important factors in any tribunal claim is the deadline.
In most cases, you must start your claim within three months less one day from:
- The date your employment ended (for unfair dismissal claims)
- The date the incident occurred (for discrimination claims)
- The date of the wage deduction or breach complained of
Missing the deadline can result in your claim being rejected.
Example
If you were dismissed on 1 March, your tribunal claim would normally need to be received by 31 May.
Step 1: Gather Evidence
Before taking legal action, collect and organise all relevant documents, including:
- Employment contract
- Payslips
- Emails and messages
- Disciplinary records
- Grievance correspondence
- Witness statements
- Meeting notes
- Performance reviews
Strong evidence significantly improves your chances of success.
Step 2: Try Internal Procedures First
Before making a tribunal claim, employees are encouraged to attempt to resolve the issue internally.
This may include:
- Raising a formal grievance
- Appealing a dismissal
- Requesting unpaid wages
- Following the employer’s dispute resolution procedures
While not always mandatory, tribunals often expect parties to attempt reasonable resolution before litigation.
Step 3: Contact ACAS for Early Conciliation
Before filing most Employment Tribunal claims, you must notify the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS). This process is called Early Conciliation.
What Is ACAS Early Conciliation?
ACAS offers a free service that helps employers and employees resolve disputes without going to tribunal.
During Early Conciliation:
- ACAS contacts both parties.
- A conciliator explores settlement options.
- If settlement is reached, the matter ends.
- If no settlement is reached, ACAS issues an Early Conciliation Certificate.
Does Early Conciliation Stop the Clock?
Yes.
The limitation period is paused while ACAS Early Conciliation is underway. Once the certificate is issued, the limitation clock begins running again.
Step 4: Obtain Your Early Conciliation Certificate
In most cases, you cannot submit a tribunal claim without an ACAS Early Conciliation Certificate number.
You will need:
- Your certificate number
- Details of the employer or respondent
- Information about your claim
Keep the certificate safe because you will need it for your ET1 claim form.
Step 5: Complete the ET1 Claim Form
The ET1 is the official Employment Tribunal claim form.
When completing the ET1, include:
- Your personal details
- Employer details
- ACAS certificate number
- Legal basis of your claim
- Clear chronology of events
- Financial losses suffered
- Desired remedy or compensation
Tips for Completing an ET1
- Be factual and concise.
- Use dates wherever possible.
- Explain what happened in chronological order.
- Avoid emotional language.
- Reference supporting evidence.
The tribunal and employer must clearly understand the allegations being made.
Step 6: Submit Your Employment Tribunal Claim
Claims can be submitted online or by post.
To submit online, use the UK Government Employment Tribunal service.
You will usually need:
- Names and addresses of all claimants
- Employer details
- ACAS Early Conciliation Certificate numbers
- Details of your complaint
Does It Cost Money to Make an Employment Tribunal Claim?
No.
Employment Tribunal fees were abolished, and there is currently no fee to submit a claim.
However, you may incur costs for:
- Legal representation
- Expert reports
- Witness expenses
In rare circumstances, costs may be awarded against a party who behaves unreasonably.
What Happens After You Submit Your Claim?
Once your ET1 is accepted:
Employer Response (ET3)
The employer receives the claim and can submit a defence.
Case Management
The tribunal may:
- Schedule preliminary hearings
- Request additional documents
- Set disclosure deadlines
- Order witness statements
Settlement Discussions
ACAS can continue helping parties negotiate a settlement throughout the tribunal process.
Final Hearing
If settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to a full tribunal hearing where evidence and witnesses are considered before judgment is delivered.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
The amount awarded depends on the type of claim and individual circumstances.
Potential remedies include:
- Compensation for lost earnings
- Injury to feelings awards in discrimination cases
- Holiday pay
- Notice pay
- Redundancy payments
- Reinstatement
- Re-engagement
- Declarations of rights
Each case is assessed individually by the tribunal.
Common Employment Tribunal Mistakes to Avoid
Missing the Deadline
Many claims fail because they are submitted late.
Skipping ACAS Early Conciliation
Most claimants must complete Early Conciliation before filing.
Submitting Incomplete Evidence
Lack of documentary evidence can weaken a claim.
Using Emotional Arguments
Tribunals focus on facts, evidence, and legal principles.
Failing to Quantify Financial Losses
Clearly calculate lost earnings, benefits, bonuses, and other losses.
Employment Tribunal FAQs
How long does an Employment Tribunal take?
Complex claims can take several months or longer depending on tribunal workloads and case complexity.
Can I represent myself?
Yes. Many claimants represent themselves without a solicitor.
Can I claim for discrimination after leaving my job?
Yes. Former employees can bring discrimination claims if filed within the applicable time limits.
Can I make a claim without an ACAS certificate?
Usually no. Most claimants must complete ACAS Early Conciliation first.
Conclusion
Making an Employment Tribunal claim can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process greatly improves your chances of success. The most important steps are acting quickly, complying with ACAS Early Conciliation requirements, gathering strong evidence, and submitting a clear ET1 claim form before the deadline expires.
If you believe your employment rights have been breached, do not delay. Employment Tribunal time limits are strict and missing them can prevent your case from being heard.
Our experienced employment law specialists provide expert legal representation for employees and workers across the UK. Whether you are facing unfair dismissal, workplace discrimination, unpaid wages, whistleblowing retaliation, or breach of contract, we can assess your case, guide you through the ACAS Early Conciliation process, and represent you throughout your Employment Tribunal claim.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and discover how our experts can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
