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Georgia Workers' Compensation Insurance
Protect your business and employees with Georgia workers' comp
If you own a business in the Peach State, Georgia workers' compensation insurance can help secure the safety and well-being of your team. This coverage provides financial and medical benefits to employees who get injured or sick on the job. It also allows companies to reduce liability and meet legal requirements.
Learn more about workers' compensation insurance in Georgia and see how Progressive Commercial can provide the coverage you need.
Who needs workers' compensation insurance in Georgia?
Georgia workers' compensation laws generally require coverage for businesses with three or more full-time or part-time employees. Companies might also need workers' comp to satisfy some professional licenses and contracts.
Georgia workers' compensation insurance exemptions
In a corporate business structure, up to five officers can opt out of workers' comp coverage, but they won't qualify for benefits in the event of an injury. Even if they waive coverage, these officers still count as employees for the state requirement.
Other exemptions to the workers' compensation laws in Georgia can include:
- Railroad workers
- Farm laborers
- Sole proprietors
- Domestic workers
- U.S. government employees
It's important to note that opting out of workers' comp can leave employees without protection if they get hurt at work. It's a good idea to talk to a legal or insurance expert to understand what this means for your Georgia business. If you have questions, reach out to one of our agents today.
What are the penalties for not having workers' comp in Georgia?
Because it's required by law, there are penalties for not having workers' compensation insurance in Georgia. Carrying the right amount of coverage prevents serious financial and legal consequences, such as costly fees or fines.
The best way to avoid these risks is to follow Georgia workers' compensation laws and get insurance.
How much does Georgia workers' comp cost?
Georgia workers' compensation rates depend on several features of your business, including:
- Job classification code: The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) establishes Georgia workers' compensation class codes for different jobs based on overall risk.
- Payroll: Georgia workers' comp rates are usually calculated based on every $100 of your total payroll. A higher payroll can mean a more expensive policy.
- Claims history: Claims history impacts the cost of Georgia workers' comp. Businesses with more claims than the industry norm can expect higher premiums, while having fewer claims could lower rates.
- Insurance carrier: Workers' comp insurance providers can set unique rates based on in-house risk evaluations, pricing options, and more.
How can you get workers' comp in Georgia?
There are three ways to get Georgia workers' compensation insurance:
- Private insurers: Many companies purchase Georgia workers' compensation policies from private insurers. These providers can adapt coverage to fit specific needs and offer additional benefits and discounts. Ask a Progressive Commercial agent about special features and start a quote today.
- Self-insurance: Georgia businesses have the option to apply for self-insurance. With approval, self-insurance can reduce their premiums by using reserved funds to manage workers' comp claims and payment. However, they need to be ready to assume all financial risks and administrative responsibilities.
- NCCI assigned risk pool: Some businesses may be unable to get private coverage or self-insurance due to being new, high-risk, or having a considerable claims history. In these cases, companies can get workers' compensation through the NCCI.
How does workers' comp work in Georgia?
Georgia workers' comp supports employees who suffer from work-related injuries or illnesses. After an employee reports an injury, the employer files a claim. If the claim is accepted, the employee will receive financial support. How long workers' comp lasts in Georgia is determined by the severity of the incident.
Common workers' compensation benefits include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Disability benefits
- Rehabilitation costs
Workers' comp helps resolve disputes and supports employees' return to work. It also prevents most employers from getting fined or sued because employees who accept these benefits usually can't take legal action.
Workers' compensation death benefits
Financial support is available to the spouse and dependents of a deceased employee through Georgia workers' compensation insurance death benefits. Eligible family members can receive:
- A lump-sum payment of up to $7,500 for funeral expenses
- Income benefits up to a total of up to $575 per week
Georgia workers' compensation statute of limitations
The time limit for filing a workers' comp claim in Georgia is usually one year from the date of injury or diagnosis.
That said, it's best to report injuries as soon as possible to ensure there's enough time to process the claim. Encourage employees to report injuries within thirty days of an on-the-job accident.
Get a Georgia workers' comp quote with Progressive Commercial
Progressive Commercial makes it easy to get workers' compensation insurance in Georgia. Our experts are here to help you meet state requirements and protect your business.
Call us to speak with an agent or start a quote online today.
