How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Wisconsin

If you believe you’ve experienced housing discrimination in Wisconsin, you’re not alone—and you have important rights under federal and state law. This guide explains, in simple steps, how to file a housing discrimination complaint in Wisconsin, what evidence you need, and which official agencies and forms to use. Knowing your rights helps ensure safe and fair housing for all renters in the state.

Understanding Housing Discrimination in Wisconsin

Housing discrimination means being treated unfairly when renting because of your race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, familial status, sexual orientation, or another protected trait. Both federal and Wisconsin laws protect renters from these practices. For example, it is illegal for a landlord to refuse your application, raise your rent, or evict you because of a protected characteristic.

• The federal Fair Housing Act protects against common forms of discrimination.
• The Wisconsin Open Housing Law (Wis. Stat. § 106.50) offers additional state-level protections.

If you suspect discrimination, you can file a complaint through state or federal agencies. Most renters in Wisconsin begin with the state-level process, but you may also choose to file with federal authorities if you prefer.

Where to File: Wisconsin Equal Rights Division

The primary agency for handling housing discrimination complaints in Wisconsin is the Wisconsin Equal Rights Division (ERD). You must typically file your complaint within one year of the alleged discrimination. If successful, the ERD may order your landlord to stop the discriminatory act, pay damages, or grant other relief.

Key Official Forms for Renters

• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (ERD-6096-E)
  When to use: Use this form if you believe you’ve experienced discrimination in the rental, sale, or financing of housing in Wisconsin. For example, if your rental application was denied and you suspect it was because of your race or disability.
  How to use: Download, complete, and submit the form to the ERD by mail, fax, or email.
  Download the official ERD-6096-E form

After filing, ERD investigators will contact you for more details and may mediate between you and the landlord. If ERD finds discrimination occurred, remedies may include financial compensation or the opportunity to rent the unit.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Complaint

Filing a housing discrimination complaint is straightforward and can be done by most renters without legal expertise. Here is a summary of the key steps:

• Identify the act of discrimination and gather supporting evidence (emails, texts, notices, applications, etc.).
• File the official complaint using the ERD-6096-E form with the Wisconsin Equal Rights Division.
• Wait for confirmation and cooperate with the investigation (you may be asked to provide more details or evidence).
• Participate in mediation or, if necessary, a hearing.

You are always allowed to file a federal fair housing complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as well, but most Wisconsin renters start with the ERD for faster, local response.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

The main laws covering housing discrimination in Wisconsin are:

• Wisconsin Open Housing Law (Wis. Stat. § 106.50)
• Federal Fair Housing Act

These laws give you the right to equal treatment when searching for or living in rental housing and provide ways to enforce your rights if those protections are violated.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I file a discrimination complaint anonymously?
   Typically, you must provide your contact information for an official investigation. However, the agency will not share your identity with your landlord without your consent during the initial inquiry.
2. What evidence do I need to support my complaint?
   Collect all emails, text messages, rental listings, application records, or witness statements that demonstrate the discriminatory act.
3. How long does the process take?
   The Equal Rights Division usually responds within several weeks. More complex cases may take several months, especially if they proceed to a hearing.
4. Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
   No. Most renters file on their own, but you may consult free resources or legal aid if you need assistance.
5. Is there a deadline for filing a complaint?
   Yes, you should file within one year of the alleged discrimination to protect your rights under Wisconsin law.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• You have strong protections under state and federal fair housing laws in Wisconsin.
• The process to file a housing discrimination complaint is straightforward with the right form and supporting evidence.
• Use official government resources and don’t hesitate to seek help if you have questions or concerns.

Understanding your rights is the best first step to safe, discrimination-free housing in Wisconsin.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wisconsin Equal Rights Division – Housing Discrimination Information
• File a housing discrimination complaint with ERD (Official Form ERD-6096-E)
• HUD – Federal Fair Housing Information
• Tenant Resource Center – Renters’ Support and Education (Wisconsin)

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1. Wisconsin Open Housing Law (Wis. Stat. § 106.50)
2. Official Wisconsin Housing Discrimination Complaint Form ERD-6096-E
3. Wisconsin Equal Rights Division – Housing Rights
4. Federal Fair Housing Act

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