How Do I Fill in My ET1 Form? Step-by-Step UK Guide

Key Takeaways

1. Completing your ET1 form accurately is essential—mistakes or missing details can result in your employment tribunal claim being rejected or delayed.
2. Before you begin, ensure you have your ACAS certificate and all relevant employment evidence ready to avoid unnecessary issues.
3. Carefully complete the ‘details of claim’ section, clearly outlining your reasons for unfair dismissal, discrimination, or any other employment dispute.
4. Our AI-powered step-by-step guide and automated ET1 checker help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your tribunal claim is thorough.
5. Including all required information and supporting documents improves your chance of success at the employment tribunal.
6. Submitting an incomplete or incorrect ET1 form may result in your claim being lost, tribunal fees being wasted, or your case being struck out.
7. Go-Legal AI is rated Excellent on Trustpilot with over 170 five-star reviews from real users.
8. Using our templates and automated legal review ensures your ET1 submission is fully compliant with UK employment tribunal requirements.

How Do I Fill in My ET1 Form for an Employment Tribunal Claim?

Filling in the ET1 form for an employment tribunal can be stressful, especially if you are worried you could miss a crucial detail or make a mistake that leads to rejection. Many business owners, employees, and freelancers find the process confusing—especially when it comes to presenting the ‘details of claim’ and identifying the right evidence. Errors here can mean wasted time, lost tribunal fees, or your case being dismissed before it is heard.

This step-by-step guide breaks down the process so you know exactly how to complete each section of your ET1, from preparing your ACAS certificate and supporting documents to structuring your case for unfair dismissal, discrimination, unpaid wages, and more. Practical tips and real-world examples help you avoid the most common mistakes, save legal costs, and submit a stronger claim.

With our templates, automated ET1 checker, and expert-reviewed guidance, you can ensure your claim is both thorough and tribunal-ready. Start your claim confidently using our step-by-step support.

What Is the ET1 Form and When Do You Need It for an Employment Tribunal?

The ET1 form is the required document to formally start a claim at an employment tribunal in England or Wales. It’s how you notify the tribunal—and your employer or ex-employer—of your intention to claim for issues covered under UK employment law. These most often include unfair dismissal, workplace discrimination, unpaid wages, redundancy disputes, whistleblowing, or breach of contract.

• Your workplace dispute cannot be resolved directly with your employer.
• ACAS early conciliation has ended (a process designed to settle disputes before reaching the tribunal).
• You want your claim formally considered by the employment tribunal.

The ET1 form must be submitted by the claimant (you—as an employee, worker, or in some cases, a job applicant), or by your representative using your specific facts and documents. It must reach the tribunal within the prescribed time limit—usually within three months less one day from the date of the incident or dismissal.

What Should I Prepare Before Filling In My ET1 Form?

Preparation is key. Before starting your ET1, gather all relevant documents and evidence—you’ll need to refer to these for accurate details and to support your claim.

The essentials include:

• ACAS early conciliation certificate and reference number (required for almost all claims)
• Employment contract and relevant workplace policies or staff handbooks
• Payslips (to evidence pay issues or terms of employment)
• Timeline of events (list out what happened, when, and who was involved)
• Accurate employer details (check the official business name and address from your contract or payslips)
• Emails, messages, or meeting notes (to show communication and events leading to your claim)
• Witness details (if you have supporting witnesses—names and contact information)

If a critical document is missing, don’t panic—you can submit your ET1 but must clearly explain what is missing and why. Submitting complete evidence strengthens your claim and reduces the risk of delay or challenge.

The ACAS certificate is compulsory in most cases. ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) runs an initial process to resolve workplace disputes. Once conciliation ends, you’ll be given a certificate with a reference number. This number must be recorded on your ET1 form, or your claim is likely to be rejected.

Step-by-Step Guide: How Do I Fill in My ET1 Form Correctly?

Breaking the ET1 form into clear steps makes the task easier and far less intimidating. Here’s how to complete each section with maximum accuracy and impact:

1. Claimant Details

Record your full name, date of birth, address, and preferred contact information. Double-check these details for spelling errors or typos, as mistakes could lead to delays in receiving important updates from the tribunal.

2. Respondent Details

Use your employer’s full legal name and their registered or head office address. Don’t use nicknames or abbreviations—check your employment contract, recent payslip, or Companies House for the correct details.

3. Employment Details

Clearly state your job title, start and end dates, weekly hours, wage/salary, and the reason your employment ended (e.g., dismissed, resigned, made redundant). Attach a copy of your contract if you have one, or provide as much detail as possible about your working relationship.

4. ACAS Certificate Information

Record the certificate number and date as shown on your ACAS certificate. If ACAS early conciliation did not take place, you must explain clearly why this step was not required—this only applies in rare exceptions.

5. Claim Types

Tick all categories that apply to your situation—such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy payment dispute, or breach of contract. Only tick the boxes that genuinely relate to your problem, as this frames your entire case.

6. Details of Claim

This is your main narrative—explained fully in the next guidance section.

7. Remedies Sought

Add a clear statement of what outcome you want from the tribunal—such as compensation (give an estimate if possible), reinstatement to your job, or an order requiring your employer to take a specific action.

8. Supporting Documents

List every piece of evidence you are attaching, from contracts to emails or payslips. Be explicit and organised—tick the appropriate boxes for every document provided.

How to Fill in the ‘Details of Claim’ Section on the ET1 Form

The ‘Details of Claim’ is your main opportunity to set out your case. Write a clear, factual, and concise account of what happened, when, and who was involved. Organise your narrative in chronological order, and focus on facts over opinions.

How to Structure Your Claim:

• Begin with a timeline, outlining every major event and relevant dates.
• Name the specific people and their roles.
• Clearly describe the actions that led to your claim (e.g., “On 21 January 2024, my contract was terminated without any prior warning or disciplinary procedure”).
• Stick to demonstrable facts—avoid emotional or speculative statements.

Link every complaint—be it unfair dismissal, discrimination, or unpaid wages—to the facts you have set out. Explain what legal remedy or compensation you are seeking and, if possible, support each point with attached evidence such as emails or letters.

Key Information and Evidence to Include in Your ET1 Employment Tribunal Claim

What Are the Most Common Mistakes When Completing the ET1 Form (and How to Avoid Them)?

ET1 forms are often rejected for preventable mistakes. Avoid the pitfalls with these strategic solutions:

Carefully read each section, upload every piece of evidence, and always confirm you are submitting within the time limit for your claim.

How Do I Submit My ET1 Online? What Happens Next?

Submitting your ET1 is straightforward via the government’s online employment tribunal service.

How to Submit Your ET1:

1. Go to the gov.uk ET1 employment tribunal claim page.
2. Complete the required sections, following on-screen prompts.
3. Upload all supporting documents before finalising your submission.
4. Submit and save your confirmation receipt.

What Happens After Submission:

• You’ll receive electronic confirmation and a case number from the tribunal.
• The tribunal will officially serve your claim on your employer (the respondent).
• Your employer has 28 days to lodge an ET3 response form.
• You’ll receive updates and further instructions, such as requests for more evidence or hearing notices, as your claim progresses.

Can I Use a Template or AI-Powered Tool to Complete My ET1 Form?

Using a carefully designed template or AI-powered ET1 tool offers vital benefits for claimants, especially those without a legal background. Our platform helps ensure accuracy and compliance at each step, guiding you through common legal pitfalls.

Key advantages include:

• Guided, plain-English prompts to address every required section.
• Built-in checks for legal compliance and submission deadlines.
• Automatically flags commonly missed details or missing evidence.
• Includes lawyer-reviewed templates for extra peace of mind.

How Go-Legal AI Simplifies Filling In Your ET1 Form

Go-Legal AI streamlines the ET1 process with a blend of smart AI automation, employment law expertise, and user-friendly design. Here’s how our platform supports your claim:

• AI-driven ET1 form builder: Step-by-step guides help you complete every section, ensuring nothing is missed.
• Error and deadline checker: Instantly scans your entire application for missing information, misidentified parties, or late filings.
• Lawyer-reviewed templates: Use pre-approved templates annotated with strategic guidance to strengthen your claim.
• Easy evidence organiser: Upload and link all supporting documents directly within your claim for clarity and completeness.
• On-demand legal review: Request review by an employment tribunal specialist for an added level of assurance.
• Progress tracker and smart reminders: Never miss a step or submission deadline as you move from claim start to hearing.

Take control—use our toolkit now to prepare an error-free, robust ET1 submission and give your claim the best chance of prompt review and acceptance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an ACAS certificate before submitting my ET1?

Yes, unless you fall within rare exceptions (such as certain interim relief claims). For most cases, you must complete ACAS early conciliation and include your certificate number in your ET1 submission.

What details should I include in the ‘Details of Claim’ section?

Provide a clear, chronological timeline of key events. Specify dates, names, actions, and why you believe there was a breach of employment law—for example, unfair dismissal or unlawful discrimination.

What is the deadline for submitting my ET1 for unfair dismissal?

You must submit your ET1 within three months less one day of your dismissal date. Late claims are almost always struck out unless there are exceptional reasons.

Can I edit or add to my ET1 claim after I submit it?

You can apply to the tribunal to amend your ET1, but permission must be granted. Amendments aren’t guaranteed and are generally allowed only with good reason.

Do I need a solicitor to help me with my ET1 form?

You can complete and submit the ET1 yourself. However, using our legal tools and step-by-step guidance improves your chances of success, reduces errors, and can save significant time compared to working from scratch.

How do I upload evidence with my ET1 form?

The online tribunal portal allows direct attachment of documents, including contracts, payslips, and email evidence. Always list all attached evidence in your ET1 for clarity.

What happens after my ET1 is accepted by the tribunal?

You’ll receive formal acknowledgement, and your employer will be notified and asked to respond within 28 days. The tribunal will then provide the next steps, such as hearings, further submissions, or mediation offers.

Can my ET1 claim be struck out for mistakes?

Yes. Major errors, such as a missing ACAS certificate number, late submission, or unclear details of claim, can result in your case being rejected or struck out entirely.

Can I withdraw my ET1 claim after submission?

Yes, you may withdraw your claim at any time by notifying the tribunal in writing.

How long does the ET1 process take in the UK?

Straightforward claims may progress from submission to hearing in a few months. More complicated cases may take longer, depending on the tribunal’s workload and complexity.

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Create Your ET1 Employment Tribunal Form with Go-Legal AI

Understanding and correctly completing the ET1 form is crucial for anyone making an employment tribunal claim—whether dealing with unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy, or unpaid wages. With this guide, you’re equipped to prepare thoroughly, avoid common pitfalls, and present a robust, organised case that protects your rights and future.

Our lawyer-approved templates and AI-powered tools eliminate stress and uncertainty from the ET1 process. Embrace step-by-step digital support to generate, review, and submit your form with accuracy and confidence—giving your tribunal claim the best chance of acceptance.

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