SUBJECT

APPROPRIATE

INAPPROPRIATE

AGE

None

Questions about age, requests for birth certificate

CITIZENSHIP

May ask about legal authorization to work in the specific position, if all applicants are asked.

May not ask if person is a U.S. citizen.

EDUCATION

May ask about degrees held or appropriate experience.

Questions about education not related to job performance.

DISABILITY

May ask about ability of applicant to perform job-related functions.

Whether applicant has a disability, specific questions about accommodation (“How will you get to work?”)

MARITAL/FAMILY STATUS

Whether an applicant can meet the requirements of the position – should ask all applicants, regardless of age or gender.

Any inquiry about marital status, children, pregnancy, or child care plans.  If applicants ask about dual career couple issues, day care, “stop-the-clock” programs, or related topics, you may give information.

NAME

May ask current legal name.

May not ask about prior marital status or the national or ethnic origin of the name.

NATIONAL ORIGIN

May ask all applicants if legally authorized to work in the position.

May not ask whether applicant is legally eligible to work in the United States, or how they came to the country.

ORGANIZATIONS

May ask about professional organizations related to the position.

May not ask about organizations that indicate race, sex, religion, national origin, etc.

RACE, COLOR, ETHNICITY

None

Comments about complexion, skin color, height, weight, personal appearance

RELIGION

May ask if applicant would be able to work required schedule.  May inform applicant that accommodation possible.

May not ask about religious preferences, affiliations, or denominations.