What is an ET1 form?

An ET1 form is the official document used to start a claim in the Employment Tribunal. It sets out the details of your complaint against your employer or former employer, such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, or unpaid wages. The Tribunal uses this form to decide whether your claim is valid and to notify the respondent (your employer) that a case has been started.

Read more: our guide to the Employment Tribunal process

When to use an ET1 form

You should complete and submit an ET1 form if you believe your employment rights have been breached and informal resolution has not been successful. The form can only be submitted after you have completed the ACAS early conciliation process (unless an exemption applies).

Before submitting your ET1

Early conciliation through ACAS

Before you can submit a claim, you must contact ACAS for early conciliation. This process allows both parties to try to resolve the dispute without going to Tribunal. If conciliation is unsuccessful or either side chooses not to continue, ACAS will issue an Early Conciliation Certificate. The certificate number must be included on your ET1 form for the Tribunal to accept your claim.

Deadlines for making a Tribunal claim

Strict time limits apply to Employment Tribunal claims. In most cases, you must submit your ET1 form within three months less one day of the event you are complaining about, such as the date your employment ended or when the alleged discrimination occurred. The ACAS early conciliation process pauses the time limit, but once it ends, the clock starts again. Late claims are only accepted in exceptional circumstances.

Read more: time limits in the Employment Tribunal

Information you should prepare before completing your form

Before starting your ET1, gather all relevant information, including:

• Your ACAS Early Conciliation Certificate number.
• The correct legal name and address of your employer.
• Key dates, such as the start and end of your employment.
• A clear summary of the events leading to your claim.
• Copies of supporting evidence such as contracts, emails, or payslips.

Having this information ready helps ensure your form is complete and accurate.

Completing the ET1 form

Key sections of the form explained

The ET1 form is divided into several sections. You will need to provide:

• Your personal details – name, contact information, and employment status.
• Employer details – the legal name and registered address of your employer.
• Details of your claim – what happened, when, and why you believe your rights were breached.
• Type of claim – for example, unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy pay, or unlawful deduction from wages.
• Remedy sought – what outcome you are asking the Tribunal for, such as compensation or reinstatement.

Each section should be completed carefully, as incomplete or inaccurate information can delay your claim.

Common mistakes to avoid

Many claims are delayed or rejected because of simple errors. Common mistakes by employees submitting Employment Tribunal claims include:

• Misspelling the employer’s legal name or using a trading name instead.
• Leaving out the ACAS Early Conciliation Certificate number.
• Failing to explain clearly what your complaint is about.
• Missing or incorrect dates

Double-check your form before submission to ensure all details are correct.

Providing details of your employer and claim

When identifying your employer, use the name listed on your contract or payslip. For larger organisations, include the head office address rather than a local branch. In your claim details, be factual and concise. Set out what happened in chronological order and explain how it breached your employment rights. Avoid emotional language or speculation.

Attaching evidence and supporting documents

You can attach documents that support your claim, such as your contract, letters of dismissal, or relevant email correspondence. These help the Tribunal understand your case and may be used later as evidence. If you do not wish to attach this evidence to the ET1 claim form then it can be submitted to the Respondent, as well as the Employment Tribunal, at a later date via the disclosure process.

Submitting your ET1 claim

How to submit online using the government portal

The most common way to submit an ET1 is through the official government website: www.gov.uk/employment-tribunals/make-a-claim.

The online system guides you through each section and checks for common errors before submission. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email and reference number.

Alternative submission methods

If you cannot submit online, you can download a paper version of the ET1 form from the government website and send it by post to the Employment Tribunal office. Postal submissions must arrive before the deadline.

What happens after you submit your ET1

After submission, the Tribunal will check that your form is valid and complete. If accepted, a copy will be sent to your employer (the respondent), who must reply using an ET3 response form within 28 days.

After submitting your ET1

Acknowledgement and response from the Tribunal

You will receive an acknowledgement confirming that your claim has been received. If the Tribunal needs clarification or additional information, it will contact you. Once your employer’s ET3 response is filed, you will receive a copy for review.

The employer’s ET3 response form

The ET3 is your employer’s opportunity to set out their version of events and explain why they disagree with your claim. They may accept part of your case or deny it entirely. The Tribunal will then assess both sides’ submissions before scheduling a preliminary or full hearing.

Next steps in the Tribunal process

Depending on the complexity of the case, the Tribunal may hold a preliminary hearing to clarify issues or set deadlines for evidence. You may be asked to submit a schedule of loss, provide witness statements, or exchange documents. If the matter cannot be settled, it will proceed to a full hearing where both parties can present their evidence and arguments.

If your ET1 is rejected or incomplete

Reasons a claim may be rejected

Your claim could be rejected if:

• The form is incomplete.
• The ACAS Early Conciliation Certificate number is missing or incorrect.
• The claim is submitted after the time limit.
• The Tribunal has no jurisdiction to hear the case.

How to correct and resubmit your form

If your claim is rejected for a minor error, you may be allowed to correct and resubmit it. The Tribunal will explain the reason for rejection and provide guidance on what needs to be amended. Prompt action is important to avoid missing time limits.

Practical guidance for employees

Getting legal advice before submitting a claim

Employment Tribunal proceedings can be complex. Legal advice from an employment lawyer or representative can help ensure your claim is properly drafted and supported by evidence. Specialist employment lawyers can review your ET1 form before submission to check for errors or omissions.

If you would us to help you with your ET1 form then please contact us to discuss.

Keeping copies of your submission and correspondence

Always keep a copy of your completed ET1 form, supporting documents, and any Tribunal correspondence. You may need these later during the hearing or settlement discussions.

Time limits and the importance of acting promptly

Strict time limits apply to all claims. Delays can result in a case being struck out before it is heard. Acting promptly and ensuring your ET1 is complete and accurate will give your claim the best possible chance of being accepted.