Age discrimination occurs when Americans are stereotyped and discriminated against because of their age. The most common form of age discrimination usually occurs when an employee over 40 is discriminated against. The federal government legislates against age discrimination in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA). It mandates that employers not discriminate against older employees or employees who file claims with the ADEA. Some of the specific areas named in the ADEA include job notices and advertisements, benefits, pre-employment interviews, and even apprenticeship programs. If someone does file a claim, the ADEA requires that all appropriate parties attempt to eliminate the age discrimination through conciliation, conference, and persuasion. If that doesn't work, the aggrieved party can file a civil suit. If age discrimination can be proved, compensation based on the plaintiff's earnings and the time they are out of work may be awarded.