Every year that you grow older is simply a chance to celebrate the life that you’re living. It should certainly not be a time when you are worried about being let go from your job or seeing other negative impacts on your career.
Unfortunately, this is exactly how a lot of people feel. As they grow older in their current position, they see the constant influx of new talent. They worry that the employer will fire them in order to hire someone younger. It’s important to know if this type of action would violate your rights.
You have more protection when you turn 40 years of age
To try to prevent age discrimination, the government has used the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). It specifically states that workers who are 40 years of age or older cannot be discriminated against because of their age. Once you hit this age, your protections increase.
You still may need to be wary of discrimination, however. Some companies try to hide it by using other excuses. They may say that you don’t fit with the company culture, for instance, but what they really mean is that they’re trying to hire a lot of young workers and you are no longer young. This is still age discrimination.
In many cases, money is the driving factor. Younger workers may be willing to take a lower salary. Employers may try to cut costs by firing all the older workers and replacing them. Once again, this is discrimination based on their age.
If you’re worried about being discriminated against or if you already have been wrongfully terminated, then it is time to start looking into your legal options.