Unfortunately, although it’s illegal, many workers in Idaho still face age discrimination. If you have been discriminated against at work or by a prospective employer, you may want to take action. It’s important to know how you can prove age discrimination.
How can you identify age discrimination?
Although employment law makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against anyone, whether they are already employees or applicants for available jobs, the practice still occurs. If an employee or applicant is discriminated against due to their age and they are 40 or older, they have the right to file a lawsuit against the employer.
Older employees may find that they are passed over for a promotion or raise in favor of someone younger. However, if they know they are more qualified for the position or salary increase, it can raise questions. Age discrimination can also result in an employee being let go without any valid explanation or an applicant who is fully qualified for a job being passed over in favor of a younger applicant.
Who is considered an older worker?
Employees are often considered to be older if they are 40 or over. However, many people work well into their 50s, 60s and even 70s. These employees can be in any type of industry and may be part-time, full-time, temporary or permanent workers. It may not be obvious from your resume depending on certain factors, but employers usually have at least a general idea of potential employees’ ages. When you are already an employee, your employer will know your age based on your personal documents.
What can you do if you’re discriminated against?
If you believe you have faced age discrimination at work, you may want to file a lawsuit. It’s important to remember that due to the Equality Act, older employees are protected against age discrimination. This includes all components of your job, which means you cannot legally be passed over for a raise, training, promotion or transfer simply because of your age.
