How to Handle Age Discrimination at Work

Unfortunately, age discrimination in the workplace is a problem that affects many older adults who are employed or who seek employment. State and federal laws forbid employers to treat you any differently than your younger counterparts. If you are a senior, you should know how to handle age discrimination at work.

Instructions

1. Talk to a manager. Let them know the issue and figure out if you can resolve it without the need to take it any further. Once a manager is alerted to age discrimination, he should act on your behalf.

2. Go to the head of the company. If your direct supervisor does not properly handle the problem, then set up a meeting to discuss the discrimination problem with the top person in the company.

3. Speak to a lawyer. If you attempt to resolve the issue, but the age discrimination continues, then you should seek out legal counsel. Look for a lawyer who specializes in employment laws.

4. File a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC will investigate the matter and attempt to resolve the issue between the employee and employer.

5. Proceed to court and file a private suit against the employer. After the EEOC investigation, you may decide to sue your employer for damages.

Tips & Warnings

• There are time restrictions on age discrimination cases. The EEOC requires that you file a complaint within 6 months of the incident.

• Find out what types of situations can be considered age discrimination on both the EEOC and AARP websites.

Resources

• Get help with your age discrimination problem through the EEOC website.