I was recently fired due to my age. Is this unlawful?

Question

I got a job about a week ago. However, yesterday I was called and fired because I am under 18, even though they already hired me, and I had already worked there a week. I did not withhold information, and I made them well aware of my age specifically to prevent this from happening. I am a junior in college, but I am only 17, so it is difficult for me to find a job in Chicago. Is it unlawful for this company to let me go, and if so, what are the laws regarding this issue? Thanks!

Answer 1

No its perfectly fine if they fire you because of your age.  Your job might of required a certain age requirement.

Junior in college but 17, say what?

Answer 2

You still don't have full rights until you are 18. Sorry.

Answer 3

You don't mention the company and what the job entailed.  For example, if your job was as a waiter serving alcohol to patrons, then the business that retained you, knowing you were under the legal age to serve, could be held criminally liable.  Therefore, firing you was not unlawful.

Answer 4

Sorry, but per the document below the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) only protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older from employment discrimination based on age.

However,it wouldn't hurt for you to check with a lawyer.

Answer 5

It's not unlawful if there is a legal age requirement for the job.

Answer 6

the thing that catches my eyes is that they hired you and then fired you for your age.  

Answer 7

If they fired you, it was because they have to meet OSHA standards. OSHA sets the rules for particular type jobs with restrictions. As to the fact they hired you, blame HR. But they did what they had to do. Fact of life.

Answer 8

I'm afraid companies do reserve the right to set a minimum age requirement.  You might try to work outside of the law & just explain that you are not a typical 17 year old since you've already excelled your way into college and try to negotiate your position back.

Answer 9

you should have asked why they hired you in the first place so you can use it as a basis for answering this question. it is not unlawful since you are an underage but considering that you are only working for a very minor industry, that is not right. and besides, they were well-informed about your age. and as what you have said, there was no age restriction before you got the job. so tactfully ask them why were you hired and fired later on?

i think the motive of your employers is avoiding to pay you. but that is already unlawful. as someone who had worked for a cetain time, you need to get a payment for the service you have rendered, without no restriction to age.

Answer 10

All of the above answers are right on, so sorry. Another reason too, a lot has to do with insurance liability, due to your age. Since you are in college have you talked to your student counselor, or checked with the unemployment office ? You could also run a add in the newspaper, if you haven't already. Bulletin boards in shopping centers, and stores are good places to post you are looking for work also. You probably were hired, before someone caught how old you were, again insurance liability I would bet had a lot to do with your dismissal. Hang in there though, cause where there is a will there is a way. Also too, almost forgot, check with your local churches, you would be surprised what they can do to help you.For many have elderly who need help, but are to proud to get help, and would rather hire someone. LOL

Answer 11

It is not illegal - only if you're over 40.

I worked for Home Depot and know they don't hire under 18 for safety/liability insurance reasons. If they didn't know, their insurance company - or the business that hired/fired you can push the issue and make them get rid of you until your 18th birthday.

Sorry...enjoy your youth and look for another job. Perhaps someone in the company you were with can give you a reference!

Answer 12

I have to agree with Tinman on his answer.