Are employers allowed to ask job applicants about their marital status?

In Massachusetts, employers are generally not allowed to ask questions or make inquiries about an applicant’s marital status. This includes questions about one’s spouse, number of children, or plans for having more children. This is prohibited under both state and federal law, as it is seen as a form of discrimination based on gender. Under the state’s anti-discrimination law, Massachusetts General Law Chapter 151B, it is illegal for an employer to make any discriminatory decisions regarding hiring, firing, and other terms of employment based on a job applicant’s marital status. This means that an employer cannot deny a job solely because the applicant is married, single, divorced, or widowed. In addition, the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating against applicants due to their marital status. This means that employers may not ask questions or make inquiries about an applicant’s marital status, nor may they use it as a factor in deciding whether to hire the applicant. Therefore, in Massachusetts, employers are not permitted to ask job applicants about their marital status. Doing so could lead to legal action being taken against the employer. If you believe that you have been discriminated against because of your marital status, you should contact the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination or a lawyer experienced in employment law.

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Are employers allowed to ask job applicants about their marital status?

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