Quick Answer
Complete guide to Georgia workers' compensation including filing with State Board of Workers' Compensation, benefit calculations, and permanent partial disability awards.
Georgia workers' compensation provides medical treatment and income benefits for employees injured at work, administered by the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation. If you've been injured on the job in Georgia, you're entitled to no-fault benefits under one of the more employer-friendly state systems.
Georgia requires coverage for employers with 3+ employees and offers benefits including up to $675/week in wage replacement (2026) and comprehensive medical care. Understanding Georgia workers' comp laws helps you navigate the system effectively.
Quick Facts: Georgia Workers' Compensation
| Topic | Georgia Law | Most States |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 3+ employees | Varies (1-4+) |
| Temporary Disability | 66.67% of average weekly wage | 60-70% AWW |
| Maximum Weekly (2026) | $675/week | Varies |
| Filing Deadline | 1 year from injury | 1-3 years |
| State Agency | State Board of Workers' Compensation | Varies |
| Employer Threshold | 3+ employees | Often 1+ |
Who Is Covered
Employer threshold: 3 or more employees (higher than most states)
Covered: Full-time, part-time, seasonal workers
Exemptions: Sole proprietors, partners, independent contractors, casual labor, agricultural workers (in many cases), domestic servants, railroad workers
Benefits Available
Medical Benefits
Coverage: All reasonable and necessary medical treatment
No cost: No deductibles or co-pays
Includes: Emergency care, doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, prescriptions, physical therapy, equipment
Doctor selection:
- Panel of physicians: Employer posts panel of at least 6 physicians
- Employee chooses from panel
- Can change within panel
Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
Amount: 66.67% of average weekly wage
Maximum (2026): $675/week (lower than many states)
Waiting period: 7 days (retroactive after 21 days)
Duration: Up to 400 weeks
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
Scheduled injuries: Fixed weeks for specific body parts
- Arm: 225 weeks
- Leg: 225 weeks
- Hand: 160 weeks
- Foot: 135 weeks
- Eye: 150 weeks
Unscheduled injuries: Based on impairment rating
Payment: 66.67% of AWW up to $675/week
Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
Amount: 66.67% of AWW (max $675/week)
Duration: Lifetime (or until age 65, whichever is less, then reduced)
Death Benefits
Burial expenses: Up to $7,500
Dependency benefits: 66.67% of wages to surviving spouse and children (max $675/week)
Filing Process
Step 1: Report injury to employer within 30 days
Step 2: Seek treatment from physician on employer's panel
Step 3: Employer files Form WC-1 within 21 days
Step 4: If denied, file Form WC-14 (employee's claim)
Deadline: 1 year from date of injury (or last authorized treatment)
Learn more: How to File a Georgia Workers' Comp Claim
Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation
Website: www.sbwc.ga.gov
Services: File claims, resolve disputes, access forms
Phone: (404) 656-3818 (Atlanta); (229) 430-4035 (Albany)
Offices: Atlanta, Albany, Columbus, Savannah
Covered Injuries
- Work-related accidents
- Occupational diseases
- Repetitive trauma injuries
- Aggravation of pre-existing conditions
Not covered: Willful misconduct, intoxication, failure to use safety equipment
Learn more: Covered Injuries in Georgia Workers' Comp
Retaliation Protections
Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 34-9-18) prohibits discharge for filing legitimate workers' comp claims.
Remedies: Reinstatement, back pay
Learn more: Georgia Workers' Comp Retaliation
FAQs
Q: How much will I receive? A: 66.67% of average weekly wage, maximum $675/week (2026).
Q: Can I choose my doctor? A: Yes, from employer's panel of at least 6 physicians.
Q: How long to file? A: 1 year from injury or last authorized treatment.
Q: Can I be fired? A: No. Georgia prohibits retaliation for legitimate claims.
Q: Need a lawyer? A: Yes, for denied claims or permanent disability. Georgia law allows 25% attorney fee from recovery.
Related Georgia Topics
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Georgia workers' compensation laws. It is not legal advice. Consult a qualified Georgia workers' compensation attorney for your specific case.
Last updated: January 5, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Covered?
What is medical Benefits?
What is temporary Total Disability (TTD)?
What is permanent Partial Disability (PPD)?
What is permanent Total Disability (PTD)?
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