What Is a Protected Class: Legal Definitions and Examples

Protected classes are defined by federal laws and policies, covering traits like race, gender, disability, and religion. This guide outlines their legal definitions and examples, addressing harassment and discrimination across multiple protected characteristics.

By Brad Nakase, Attorney

Email | Call (800) 484-4610

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

Table of Contents

1. What does protected class mean?

What does protected class mean?

Federal statute or presidential order, federal agency policy, or state policy determines a protected class. There are a number of legally protected characteristics, including but not limited to: age, race, religion, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, national origin, military status, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, and religion.

The purpose of these definitions is to serve as a starting point for further discussion on the topic of protected groups and their connection to harassment and discrimination.

1. Age: For the purposes of these rules, “age” in the context of work means someone over 40 years old.

2. Ancestry: A person’s ancestry is their caste, country, nation, family, or any other group of people that they can trace their roots back to. It can also mean shared traits passed down through generations, whether those traits are physical, cultural, or language.

3. Color: Skin tone, complexion, pigmentation, and complexion.

4. Disability: A mental or physical impairment that significantly restricts one or more of a person’s main activities of life; also, a record of such an impairment or the perception of such an impairment. A disability may still exist in the event that the impairment is episodic or in remission. Major living activities such as walking, seeing, talking, hearing, learning, or operating a major body or mental function may be significantly impaired.

5. Ethnicity: The shared characteristics of a group of people who identify as a whole that set them apart from other groups; these can include things like a shared language, history, culture, religion, social treatment in their local community, and a shared set of customs and ancestry.

6. Gender: The socially created traits typically linked with men and women can be expressed through one’s gender identity. In addition to the binary genders of man and woman, there is a spectrum of genders that includes agender, genderfluid, bigender, genderqueer, non-binary, questioning/unsure, transgender, and two spirit. How a person perceives and identifies with their own gender is known as their gender identity. Gender expression refers to the outward manifestation of a person’s gender and the way in which others perceive them in relation to gender norms.

7. Genetic information: This includes details regarding a person’s own genetic tests, as well as their family members’ genetic tests, and details regarding any illnesses or disorders that have been passed down through generations in a person’s family (i.e. family medical history).

8. HIV/AIDS: Being considered to have HIV/AIDS status means that one is either infected with the virus or has acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

9. Military Status: Anyone who has been a member, served, or is obligated to serve in a military service in the past, present, or future.

10. National origin: Originating from, or being viewed as originating from, a specific nation or region of the world. Language and accent are also aspects of national origin.

11. Pregnancy: A person carrying a developing embryo, fetus, or unborn child in their body. Birth, miscarriage, abortion, breastfeeding, and any complications or recoveries from these events are all considered part of pregnancy.

12. Protected Veteran Status: The Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (VEVRAA) says that a protected veteran is someone who served in the military, was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, and is in one of four groups: retired or disabled veteran, recently separated veteran, active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran, or Armed Forces service medal veteran.

13. Race: Refers to the outward manifestations of a shared genetic heritage, such as hairstyle, skin tone, or facial traits.

14. Religion: Deeply held religious views or the lack of them, such as certain clothing, observing holidays or prayers, or having physical traits based on religion (like tattoos, piercings, or facial hair). Buddhism, Christianity, Agnosticism, Atheism, Islam, and Judaism are only a few examples of religions.

15. Sex: A person’s basic make-up, which includes their genitalia, genetic differences, and other sex traits. Usually, there are three categories of sex: female, male, and intersex. The word “because of sex” encompasses more than just gender or sexual orientation when it comes to regulations pertaining to harassment and discrimination.

16. Sexual orientation: A person’s romantic, physcial, emotional, and/or sexual attraction to others, or lack thereof. Some examples of sexual orientations are bisexual, asexual, homosexual, lesbian, and pansexual.

Important note: Multiple protected classes may be involved in some scenarios.

Here are a few examples:

Some forms of antisemitism may be associated with legally protected characteristics, such as a person’s religion, race, or national citizenship.
Ablism can manifest in various ways depending on factors such as age, handicap, or veteran status.
Depending on the behavior, transphobia could be based on sex, sexual preference, gender, gender identity, or expression.

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

See all blogs: Business | Corporate | Employment

Most recent blogs:

How to Sell Books Online: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners and Entrepreneurs

Sell books online with low startup costs, smart platform choices, and effective marketing to connect with readers around the world. Build inventory, price competitively, write appealing listings, and deliver a smooth customer experience with strategic methods.

Best Task Management Software for Teams and Individuals

Compare 20 top task management tools with key features, drawbacks, and ratings to improve productivity for individuals and teams. Find software that supports task delegation, automation, collaboration, and real-time tracking across various industries and team sizes.

Best Free VOIP Services for 2025

Compare the best free VoIP services for 2025, including Google Voice, Ringblaze, OnSIP, and Zoom Phone. Evaluate features, pricing, pros, and cons to choose a reliable communication tool without exceeding your business budget.

How to Start a Business With No Money

Start a business with no money by identifying ideas, building connections, and creating value through small, focused steps. Overcome self-doubt, engage real customers early, and grow sustainably without relying on upfront capital or flashy marketing.

Best Retail POS Systems for 2025

Square, Clover, Shopify, Lightspeed, and Epos Now rank among the top retail POS systems for 2025. Compare pricing, hardware, and features to find the best system for your store’s size, style, and growth needs.

Wix vs WordPress: A Complete Comparison of Features, Pricing, and Ease of Use

Compare Wix and WordPress on features, pricing, templates, and ease of use to find the right fit for your website. Wix offers simplicity and built-in tools, while WordPress provides advanced customization and flexibility for growing businesses.

How to Start a Cleaning Business in 2025

Start your cleaning business in 2025 using this guide on essentials, legal steps, pricing methods, and practical marketing strategies. Ensure success with business management tips, client attraction techniques, and smart budgeting for your cleaning startup.

Shopify vs Etsy: Features, Costs & Customization Compared

Compare Shopify and Etsy on features, pricing, and customization to decide the ideal e-commerce platform for your online business. Evaluate key differences in tools, fees, scalability, and storefront design to maximize your selling potential on Shopify, Etsy, or both.

Can I Legally Move Out at 17?

Is it legal to move out at 17? Emancipation allows minors to live independently, make financial decisions, and take on adult responsibilities. However, they still must follow certain laws like schooling and marriage.

What Is the California Fraud Assessment Fee?

The California fraud assessment fee is a mandatory charge for insurers, capped at $1 per insured vehicle, funding fraud investigations and prosecutions. Funds support the Fraud Division, California Highway Patrol, and district attorneys in combating auto insurance fraud and economic automobile theft.

How Does a Quiet Title Action Work in California?

A quiet title action in California resolves property ownership disputes by legally clarifying title claims through a court process. It removes uncertainties caused by liens, boundary issues, adverse possession, or estate disputes, ensuring clear ownership rights.

What Should Be Included in a Demand Letter in California?

A demand letter in California should outline the dispute, requested resolution, deadline, and legal consequences of noncompliance. A well-structured demand letter increases the chances of settlement and may help avoid costly litigation.

Why Is It Important to Reconcile Your Bank Statements and How Often Should You Do It?

A bank reconciliation statement helps detect errors, prevent fraud, and ensure accurate financial reporting. Regular reconciliation—monthly or more frequently—improves cash flow management and financial decision-making.

Is Loli Illegal? U.S. Laws on Lolicon and Legal Consequences

Lolicon's legality in the U.S. depends on federal and state laws, with potential criminal penalties for possession or distribution. Courts assess whether content violates child pornography statutes, making legal interpretations complex and case-dependent.

What Is Variable Cost and How Does It Impact Pricing Strategies?

Variable costs fluctuate with production or sales, impacting pricing strategies and profit margins. Businesses must analyze variable costs to optimize pricing, budgeting, and profitability while maintaining competitive advantages.

What Is Unilateral Action and How Is It Used in Contracts?

A unilateral contract binds only the offeror, requiring payment only when the offeree completes a specified task. Common examples include reward offers, insurance policies, and open requests, emphasizing performance-based obligations.

What Is Estate Planning and Why Is It Important for Families?

Estate planning ensures assets are distributed according to your wishes and protects loved ones from legal complications and tax burdens. A well-structured estate plan helps prevent family conflicts, secures guardianship for minors, and minimizes unnecessary financial losses.

What Is a Revocable Living Trust and How Does It Benefit Estate Planning?

A revocable living trust offers flexibility in estate planning, allowing asset control during life and seamless transfer after death. It avoids probate, ensures privacy, and provides a structured way to manage assets, reducing costs and legal complications for beneficiaries.

What Is a Quitclaim Deed and How Does It Differ From a Warranty Deed?

A quitclaim deed transfers property ownership quickly but offers no buyer protections, unlike a warranty deed that ensures a clear title. Often used among trusted parties, quitclaim deeds help with estate planning, divorce settlements, and correcting title errors without verifying property liens or claims.

What Is a Deed of Trust, and How Is It Different From a Mortgage?

A deed of trust secures real estate loans by involving a trustee, differing from mortgages, which have only two parties. Unlike mortgages, deeds of trust often enable nonjudicial foreclosure, expediting property recovery for lenders in case of default.

What Is a Contingent Beneficiary, and How Does It Differ From a Primary Beneficiary?

A contingent beneficiary receives assets only if the primary beneficiary cannot. Naming one helps avoid probate and ensures smooth inheritance distribution.

What Is a Durable Power of Attorney, and How Does It Differ From a Regular Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney lets someone manage your financial, legal, or health matters, but it expires if you lose mental competence. A durable power of attorney remains valid even after incapacity, ensuring your affairs are handled without court intervention.

What Is a Cash Flow Statement, and How Does It Help in Business Planning?

A cash flow statement tracks a company's incoming and outgoing cash, revealing financial health and operational efficiency. It helps businesses plan investments, manage liquidity, and make informed financial decisions by assessing cash flow from operations, investments, and financing activities.

What Is a Bill of Sale, and How Is It Used in Transactions?

A bill of sale is a legal document confirming the transfer of ownership in various transactions, ensuring clarity and security for both parties. It details the buyer, seller, asset, payment terms, and conditions, offering legal protection and proof of sale.

What Is a 1099, and How Does It Relate to Tax Reporting?

A 1099 form reports payments made to independent contractors, freelancers, and other non-employees for tax purposes. Businesses must file the correct 1099 form to ensure compliance with IRS regulations and avoid penalties.

What Is a Beneficiary, and What Role Do They Play in Estate Planning?

A beneficiary is someone designated to receive assets from an estate, financial account, or insurance policy. Naming beneficiaries ensures assets are distributed according to your wishes, avoiding legal complications and delays.

What Does P&L Mean, and How Is It Used in Financial Reporting?

A profit and loss (P&L) statement tracks a company's income and expenses over time, showing whether it is profitable or losing money. Businesses use P&L statements to analyze financial performance, make strategic adjustments, and meet investor or lender requirements.

What Does NNN Mean, and How Does It Apply to Commercial Leases?

A triple net lease (NNN) requires tenants to cover property taxes, insurance, and maintenance in addition to rent and utilities. While offering landlords steady income with reduced expenses, tenants gain control over the property but assume higher financial responsibility.

How Do You Start Your Own Business, and What Challenges Might You Face?

Starting a business involves planning, funding, and selecting a legal structure while ensuring your concept meets market demand. Entrepreneurs face financial risks, customer acquisition challenges, and work-life balance struggles, making preparation essential for success.

How Do You Create a Business Plan, and Why Is It Important for Startups?

A business plan outlines your company's mission, structure, and financial strategy, helping attract investors and guide decision-making. Startups benefit from a well-crafted plan by reducing risk, securing funding, and creating a roadmap for sustainable growth.

See all blogs: Business | Corporate | Employment

466

What Is a Protected Class: Legal Definitions and Examples

What does protected class mean?

Free Consultation