protected class

A protected class is a category of individuals legally safeguarded from discrimination or retaliation under federal or state law. Protected classes are identified by characteristics such as race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, and disability. Federal protections derive from statutes including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). Many states, such as California, expand these protections to additional traits such as marital status or medical condition. See: California protected classes.

[Last reviewed in October of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team]

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