The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) prohibits discrimination against employees who are at least what age?

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) prohibits discrimination against employees who are at least what age?

• A. 40
• B. 45
• C. 50
• D. 55

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is that age-based protection under the ADEA starts at 40. The act defines a protected class as individuals who are 40 years old or older, so discrimination against someone who is 40 or older in hiring, promotion, pay, terms and conditions of employment, and other employment actions is prohibited. Therefore, the minimum age at which protection applies is 40. There are rare exceptions, like bona fide occupational qualifications or certain seniority systems, but the main rule is clear: workers aged 40 and above are protected. Younger workers are not covered by the ADEA.

The key idea here is that age-based protection under the ADEA starts at 40. The act defines a protected class as individuals who are 40 years old or older, so discrimination against someone who is 40 or older in hiring, promotion, pay, terms and conditions of employment, and other employment actions is prohibited. Therefore, the minimum age at which protection applies is 40. There are rare exceptions, like bona fide occupational qualifications or certain seniority systems, but the main rule is clear: workers aged 40 and above are protected. Younger workers are not covered by the ADEA.