Another unfortunate side effect of the economic downturn: More companies are being accused of discrimination.

In 2008, the number of discrimination claims filed with the EEOC reached a record of 95,402, the commission announced recently. That’s up 15% from 2007.

The area of sharpest increase: age bias complaints. About 24,500 of those were filed in 2008, up 29% from 2007.

Of course, the increase isn’t simply because companies have ramped up discrimination against older workers. Experts say it’s likely more older workers are being laid off and are having a hard time finding new jobs.

But as the number of claims increase, its more important for managers to avoid giving the impression of bias to job candidates and employees.

Tags: age discrimination, Economy, EEOC, layoffs