Workplace Issues in Indiana
Key Indiana Law
Indiana Code Section 22-9-1-3 (Indiana Civil Rights Law)
The Indiana Civil Rights Law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, disability, national origin, or ancestry. It applies to employers with 6 or more employees and is administered by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC). Indiana does not expressly include age discrimination in its state civil rights law for private employers at the same level as federal law.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Indiana
Indiana Agencies & Resources
Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC)
Investigates employment discrimination charges under the Indiana Civil Rights Law. File within 180 days of the discriminatory act.
Indiana Department of Labor
Enforces Indiana wage payment laws, investigates wage claims, and oversees youth employment and workplace standards.
EEOC Indianapolis District Office
Handles federal employment discrimination charges for Indiana workers under Title VII, ADA, ADEA, and GINA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a discrimination charge in Indiana?
Under the Indiana Civil Rights Law, you have 180 days from the date of the discriminatory act to file a charge with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission. For federal claims under Title VII or the ADEA, you have 300 days to file with the EEOC through dual filing. Missing the 180-day state deadline affects state remedies.
Are age and sexual orientation protected in Indiana?
Age discrimination (for workers 40+) is protected under the federal ADEA, not Indiana's state civil rights law for private employees. Sexual orientation and gender identity are not expressly protected under Indiana's state civil rights law; workers rely on the federal Bostock v. Clayton County interpretation of Title VII's sex discrimination prohibition.
What is the minimum wage in Indiana?
Indiana's minimum wage follows the federal floor of $7.25 per hour. Indiana has not enacted a higher state minimum wage, and state law preempts local governments from setting their own minimum wage rates.
How do I report unpaid wages in Indiana?
You may file a wage claim with the Indiana Department of Labor for violations of Indiana's wage payment laws, including unpaid final wages. You may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division for violations of the federal FLSA, including unpaid overtime or minimum wage violations.
Related Workplace Issues Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.
Have a Specific Situation in Indiana?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.