Age Discrimination FAQ Guide

Age discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfavorably due to their age. California law, under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), protects individuals aged 40 and older from discrimination in hiring, firing, promotions, training, compensation, and other employment terms.

Common examples of age discrimination include:

• Being asked your age or birthdate during a job interview.
• Hearing comments about “bringing in younger talent” or being “too old” for certain roles.
• Experiencing layoffs where older workers are disproportionately affected.
• Being passed over for promotions in favor of younger, less experienced employees.

If you’ve experienced any of these, you may have grounds for an age discrimination claim.

If you believe you are experiencing age discrimination:

1. Take notes detailing incidents of discrimination, including dates, times, and individuals involved.
2. Review your employment handbook to understand your company’s anti-discrimination policies.
3. Report the issue to your HR department or supervisor in writing.
4. Consult with a age discrimination attorney familiar with California age discrimination laws to review your case.

Yes. You can file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), previously known as the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). They oversee violations related to age discrimination and can investigate your claims. Filing a complaint is often required before pursuing a legal claim in court.

Yes. Generally, you must file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department within three years of the discriminatory act. However, certain circumstances may extend or shorten this timeline, so it’s crucial to act promptly if you suspect discrimination.