Imagine you’ve been injured on the job in Georgia and can’t work while you recover. You could qualify for Temporary Total Disability benefits that replace a portion of your wages, up to $675 weekly for up to 400 weeks, helping ease the financial strain. But understanding how your benefits work, what medical care you’re entitled to, or how permanent injuries are compensated can be complex—and Georgia’s rules continue to evolve in ways that could impact your claim.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia workers’ compensation covers employers with three or more employees and operates under a no-fault system with benefits for medical care and wage replacement.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits pay two-thirds of average weekly wages, capped at $675, for up to 400 weeks.
- Injuries must be reported to the employer within 30 days, and claims filed within one year to maintain eligibility for benefits.
- Employers must provide a panel of six approved doctors for injured workers to choose from after emergency care.
- Additional benefits include Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) payments capped at $675 weekly and death benefits with funeral cost coverage up to $7,500.
Overview of Georgia Workers’ Compensation Laws
Although Georgia workers’ compensation laws have some exceptions, employers with three or more employees must provide coverage for work-related injuries and illnesses.
Georgia operates under a no-fault system, so you don’t have to prove employer negligence to receive benefits. These benefits include medical treatment and wage replacement, including temporary total disability (TTD) payments capped at $675 per week for up to 400 weeks depending on injury severity.
To claim these benefits, you must file your claim within one year of the injury. Your employer must provide a panel of at least six approved doctors for your treatment choices.
Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Most employees in Georgia qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if they suffer work-related injuries or illnesses while employed by a business with three or more employees. To maintain your eligibility, you must report injuries to your employer within 30 days and file claims within one year. If you can’t work for over seven days, you’re eligible for Temporary Total Disability (TTD), receiving two-thirds of your average weekly wage, capped at $675. Medical benefits are fully covered with no copayments if treated by an approved physician, and you can change one physician from the panel without employer permission.
| Benefit Type | Requirement | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Work-related injury, 3+ employees | Report injury within 30 days, claim in 1 year |
| Temporary Total Disability (TTD) | Out of work >7 days | 2/3 average weekly wage; max $675/week |
| Medical Benefits | Treatment by approved physician | Full coverage; 1 physician change allowed |
Types of Wage Loss Benefits: TTD, TPD, and PPD
Georgia workers’ compensation wage loss benefits include Temporary Total Disability (TTD), Temporary Partial Disability (TPD), and Permanent Partial Disability (PPD), each designed to financially support you based on your capacity to work after an injury.
TTD pays two-thirds of your average weekly wage, capped at $675, if you can’t work for at least 7 days, for up to 400 weeks.
TPD covers two-thirds of your wage loss difference if you work reduced hours, up to $450 weekly for 350 weeks.
PPD starts after TTD/TPD end, paying based on your impairment rating with a $675 cap, reflecting permanent impairments.
These workers’ compensation benefits guarantee injured workers receive appropriate wage loss support.
Medical Benefits and Doctor Selection Procedures
When you suffer a work-related injury, your employer must provide a panel of at least six approved doctors for you to choose from for ongoing medical treatment after any emergency care.
You’re entitled to comprehensive medical benefits covering all necessary treatments—such as physical therapy, psychological treatment, and diagnostic tests—until you reach maximum medical improvement.
Emergency care can be sought from any physician temporarily, but continued treatment requires choosing a doctor from your employer’s panel.
Additionally, you’ll receive mileage reimbursement at 40 cents per mile and coverage for parking fees related to your medical appointments.
Duration and Caps on Workers’ Compensation Payments
Although workers’ compensation benefits can provide essential support after an injury, their duration and payment amounts are subject to specific limits set by law.
In Georgia workers’ compensation, Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits last up to 400 weeks, paying two-thirds of your average weekly wage, capped at $675.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits cover up to 350 weeks and pay two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury wage and current earnings, capped at $450.
After these expire, Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits are available based on impairment ratings, also capped at $675.
Medical benefits are capped at 400 weeks for non-catastrophic claims, but catastrophic claims get lifetime coverage.
Death benefits likewise provide up to 400 weeks at two-thirds of the deceased’s wage, capped at $675, reflecting Georgia’s clear caps on workers’ compensation payments.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Georgia
To file a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia, you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days to preserve your eligibility for benefits.
Employers are then required to file a First Report of Injury (Form WC-1) within seven days after learning of the injury.
After initial emergency treatment, you must choose a doctor from the employer’s posted panel of physicians for ongoing care.
Your claim should detail the accident, injury, treatments, and medical recommendations.
Stay in contact with the insurance company to monitor claim status and provide any additional information needed to secure benefits.
Understanding Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits
Because a work-related injury may prevent you from performing your job duties entirely, Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits provide essential wage replacement during your recovery.
These benefits cover two-thirds of your average weekly wage, capped at $800 per week as of July 2023, after a one-week waiting period.
To qualify, you must report your injury within 30 days and receive treatment from an approved physician.
TTD benefits continue until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) or up to the maximum duration of 400 weeks, unless your injury is catastrophic, potentially extending benefits for life under Georgia workers’ compensation law.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) Benefits Explained
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits in Georgia replace two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury wages and what you earn after returning to work in a reduced capacity, with a maximum weekly payment of $533 as of July 2023.
You can receive these benefits for up to 350 weeks following your injury, providing financial support while you transition back to full employment.
The calculation and duration reflect your ongoing wage loss due to injury-related limitations, designed to ease the burden during recovery.
Benefit Calculation
You qualify for Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits when your work injury reduces your earning capacity, causing you to earn less than before. TPD benefits provide compensation by paying two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury and current wages, creating a financial safety net during recovery. To receive these workers’ compensation benefits, you must document wages before and after your injury accurately. Weekly payments are capped (e.g., $450 max since July 2019) and can be received for up to 350 weeks.
| Pre-Injury Wage | Post-Injury Wage | Weekly TPD Payment |
|---|---|---|
| $1,000 | $700 | 2/3 × ($1,000 – $700) = $200 |
| $800 | $600 | 2/3 × ($800 – $600) = $133 |
| $700 | $500 | 2/3 × ($700 – $500) = $133 (capped) |
You must report your earnings promptly to guarantee you receive proper TPD compensation and maintain your financial safety net while you recover from your injury.
Duration and Limits
Workers’ compensation benefits for Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) in Georgia can be received for a maximum duration of up to 350 weeks following your injury.
TPD benefits provide compensation equal to two-thirds of the difference between your pre-injury earnings and your reduced wages due to your work-related injury.
While you remain actively employed, albeit in a limited capacity, you qualify for these benefits.
The maximum payment you can receive is capped at $450 per week as of July 1, 2019.
This system supports you during recovery as you transition back to your regular job duties or investigate alternative employment options.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits and Calculations
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits in Georgia compensate you for lasting impairments caused by work-related injuries once Temporary Total Disability (TTD) or Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) benefits have concluded.
These benefits are based on an impairment rating assigned by your treating physician, reflecting your permanent partial impairment percentage. Your PPD payments equal two-thirds of your average weekly wage, capped at $675 per week as of July 2019.
The payment duration equals your impairment percentage multiplied by the maximum weeks allowed by Georgia law for the injured body part.
With insurer agreement, PPD benefits can also be paid in a lump sum for immediate relief.
Death and Funeral Benefits Under Georgia Workers’ Compensation
If a loved one dies from a work-related injury in Georgia, the family may be eligible for death benefits that pay two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, capped at $675 per week as of July 2019.
In addition, funeral expenses up to $7,500 can be covered to help with necessary costs.
These benefits can continue for up to 400 weeks, with eligibility and duration often depending on the survivor’s relationship to the deceased.
Death Benefit Eligibility
How do you qualify for death benefits under Georgia workers’ compensation? To be eligible, the death must arise from a work-related injury or occupational illness. Benefits provide two-thirds of the deceased’s average weekly wage, capped at $675 per week (as of 2019), payable to primary beneficiaries such as surviving spouses or immediate family members.
Key eligibility criteria include:
- The deceased was injured or died during employment.
- Beneficiaries include surviving spouses (often supported until age 65) and dependent children or immediate family members.
- Claims must be timely filed, typically within one year of death.
Funeral expenses are covered up to $7,500 to ease your financial burden.
Funeral Expense Coverage
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funeral Expense Coverage | Up to $7,500 |
| Death Benefits Rate | 2/3 of average weekly wage (capped) |
| Maximum Duration | 400 weeks or eligibility limit |
| Eligible Recipients | Primary beneficiaries & dependents |
This framework guarantees comprehensive support under workers’ compensation law.
Duration of Payments
While surviving beneficiaries receive death benefits under Georgia workers’ compensation, these payments continue for a limited duration—specifically, for up to 400 weeks from the date of the worker’s death or until the recipient no longer qualifies.
A surviving spouse typically receives weekly income payments until age 65 or the maximum duration.
Key points to remember under Georgia law include:
- Death benefits end after 400 weeks or when eligibility ceases.
- Family members must file a claim within one year of death.
- Weekly income payments equal two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, subject to caps.
These rules guarantee timely, fair support to dependents.
Workers’ Compensation Settlements and Lump Sum Options
Because settling your workers’ compensation claim in Georgia with a lump sum is voluntary, you and the insurance company must mutually agree on the terms before finalizing.
Workers’ compensation settlements let you receive a lump sum payment instead of ongoing benefits, which can simplify the claims process and provide immediate financial relief.
You can negotiate settlements that may include future medical benefits paid for a specific period or limit future care.
It’s essential to evaluate your long-term needs carefully before agreeing, as settling often closes your claim and might restrict future benefits or treatments.
Employer Rights and Employee Protections During Workers’ Compensation
Every employer in Georgia with three or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical expenses and lost wages for work-related injuries, ensuring basic protections for injured workers.
As an employee, you must report injuries within 30 days to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
Employers maintain a panel of at least six approved physicians to facilitate your medical care, and you may change your treating physician once without employer permission.
Employers may terminate an injured worker, but doing so can extend your benefits, protecting your rights as an injured employee.
Key points:
- Employer must provide workers’ compensation insurance if ≥3 employees.
- Injured employees report within 30 days for benefits eligibility.
- Employees choose from an approved doctor panel and can change physician once freely.
Rehabilitation and Vocational Assistance for Injured Workers
| Service Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Job Search Assistance | Helps find suitable jobs |
| Skills Training | Builds new work competencies |
| Career Counseling | Guides career direction |
| Educational Support | Covers tuition and related costs |
| Wage Loss Compensation | Supplements lost income |
Recent Changes to Georgia Workers’ Compensation Rules for 2025
Key changes include:
- Increased maximum weekly benefits for TTD and PPD
- Extended TPD benefit duration to 400 weeks
- Shortened employer injury reporting timeframe to 5 days
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Benefits of Workers Comp in Georgia?
You get medical expenses covered by approved doctors, wage replacement for temporary and permanent disabilities, vocational rehabilitation support, and death benefits for dependents. Compensation rates are capped but guarantee two-thirds of your lost wages are paid.
What Are the Three Main Requirements to Obtain Workers’ Compensation?
The three main requirements to obtain workers’ compensation in Georgia are meeting the eligibility criteria by working for an employer with at least three employees, following the claim process by promptly reporting and documenting your injury, and understanding employer responsibilities to provide approved medical treatment options and file injury reports. Employee rights include timely medical care and legal assistance if needed, while coverage limitations depend on employment type and injury circumstances.
How Much Does Workman’s Comp Pay in Georgia?
Workers’ comp in Georgia pays you two-thirds of your average weekly wage for temporary disability, capped at $675 for total disability and $450 for partial disability; permanent disability benefits and death benefits follow similar calculations. The claim process covers wage replacement and medical expenses, with benefits lasting up to 400 weeks for temporary disability and calculated impairment for permanent disability. Average payments depend on your injury severity and wage history. Benefit calculations guarantee you receive compensation matching lost income during recovery or permanently[BACKGROUND INFORMATION].
How Long Can You Receive Workers’ Comp in Georgia?
You can receive workers’ comp in Georgia for a maximum duration of 400 weeks for temporary benefits like TTD and medical coverage unless classified as catastrophic, which extends benefits for life. Permanent disability benefits follow after, based on your impairment rating. Wage replacement continues during your claim filing and temporary phases, with possible benefit extensions for catastrophic claims.
Conclusion
Georgia workers’ compensation benefits cover up to 400 weeks, with a weekly wage replacement capped at $675 for Temporary Total Disability (TTD), reflecting the state’s commitment to supporting injured employees comprehensively. Significantly, Georgia requires businesses with three or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance, ensuring most workers have access from day one on the job. This no-fault system simplifies access to medical care and wage benefits, helping you maintain financial stability while you recover.