Benefits Available Under Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Georgia 2025

At Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Atlanta, we are dedicated workers’ compensation lawyers serving the Atlanta area and across the Peach State. We have deep experience helping injured workers secure their full Georgia workers’ compensation benefits. We assist with medical benefits, wage replacement, permanent disability payments, and death or dependency claims. We support our clients through every step— from filing a claim to settlement or board hearings. We offer free case reviews and speak with you today about your legal options.

Workers’ compensation benefits in Georgia provide medical care and wage replacement for employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness. The program covers treatment costs, lost income, and, in some cases, permanent disability or death benefits. In 2025, the State Board of Workers’ Compensation continues to oversee these claims, set benefit rates, and approve settlements. Understanding your rights under Georgia law helps ensure you receive the full benefits available to you after an injury in the Atlanta area or anywhere in the state.

In this blog, you will learn about the types of workers’ compensation benefits available in Georgia for 2025, recent program changes, and why working with an experienced Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer can help you secure the full benefits you deserve.

Atlanta Work Injury

Legal Framework in Georgia

Georgia law sets specific rules for how workers’ compensation benefits work. The system protects employees after a job-related injury or illness and sets clear duties for employers. Understanding this framework is important for any injured worker in the Atlanta area or anywhere in the Peach State.

Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act

The Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act is found in O.C.G.A. § 34-9-1 through § 34-9-366. It creates the workers’ compensation program and explains who qualifies for benefits. Any business with three or more workers must carry workers’ compensation insurance. This applies to most full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees. The law also covers minors and certain corporate officers if they choose coverage.

Role of the State Board of Workers’ Compensation

The State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC) oversees all claims in Georgia. The Board sets rules for filing claims, approves settlements, and resolves disputes between workers and employers or insurers. It ensures that benefits are paid as required by law and that medical treatment follows approved guidelines. All claims must follow SBWC procedures to receive payment for medical benefits or income benefits.

Covered Injuries and Illnesses

Workers’ compensation in Georgia covers any injury or illness that arises out of and in the course of employment. This includes sudden accidents, repetitive stress injuries, and occupational diseases caused by workplace exposure. Injuries must be verified by an authorized treating physician from the employer’s posted panel of doctors. Medical benefits and income benefits are available if the injury is work-related and meets the conditions set by law.

Core Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Georgia

Georgia workers’ compensation benefits provide medical care and income replacement for employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness. These benefits are outlined in the Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act and enforced by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

Medical Benefits

Medical benefits cover treatment needed because of a job-related injury or illness. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, prescription drugs, and necessary medical equipment. Care must be provided by a doctor from the employer’s approved panel of physicians. There are no copays or deductibles for authorized treatment. Under O.C.G.A. § 34-9-200, the employer’s insurer must pay for all approved medical expenses for as long as treatment is required.

Temporary Total Disability Benefits

Temporary total disability benefits apply when a worker cannot return to any job while recovering. The payment is two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, subject to the state maximum and minimum rates. Benefits begin after the first seven days of lost time from work. If the disability lasts 21 days or more, payment is made for the first week as well. The 2025 maximum rate is set by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation each July.

Temporary Partial Disability Benefits

Temporary partial disability benefits apply when a worker can return to work but earns less than before the injury. The benefit is two-thirds of the difference between pre-injury and post-injury wages. Payments are subject to a maximum weekly amount and may continue for up to 350 weeks from the date of injury.

Permanent Partial Disability Benefits

Permanent partial disability benefits are paid when a worker has a lasting impairment after medical treatment ends. The benefit amount is based on the impairment rating assigned by the authorized treating physician and the schedule set in O.C.G.A. § 34-9-263. These payments can be made even if the worker has returned to their job.

Atlanta Work Injury Claim

Death and Dependency Benefits

Georgia workers’ compensation benefits include payments to dependents if a worker dies because of a job-related injury or illness. These benefits help cover lost income and certain final expenses for the family.

Income Benefits for Dependents

Income benefits are paid weekly to a surviving spouse, children, or other legal dependents. The amount is two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, subject to the state maximum and minimum rates. These benefits can continue for up to 400 weeks from the date of injury unless the dependent is a minor child, in which case payments may continue until the child reaches age 18 or age 22 if enrolled in school. A surviving spouse without children may be limited to a total benefit amount set by Georgia law.

Funeral and Burial Expenses

The employer’s insurer must pay funeral and burial expenses up to the maximum allowed by law. In 2025, this amount is $7,500. This payment is made directly to the provider or to the family if the expenses have already been paid.

Eligibility Rules

Eligibility for dependency benefits is determined under O.C.G.A. § 34-9-265. Proof of dependency must be shown, and benefits are divided among eligible dependents according to the law. The State Board of Workers’ Compensation reviews these claims to ensure compliance before payments are approved.

Settlements in Georgia Workers’ Compensation

A settlement in a Georgia workers’ compensation claim is an agreement between the injured worker and the employer’s insurer to close part or all of the claim. Settlements can provide a lump-sum payment or structured payments, and they must be approved by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

Lump-Sum Settlements

A lump-sum settlement pays the worker one total amount to resolve the claim. This payment may cover future medical expenses, lost wages, or permanent disability benefits. Once approved, the settlement is final, and the worker gives up the right to claim additional benefits for the resolved issues.

Structured Settlements

Structured settlements provide payments over time rather than one total amount. This option may suit workers who prefer steady income over a set period. The settlement terms must be in writing and approved by the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

Returning to Work and Settlements

A worker can settle a claim even if they have returned to work. The settlement amount may be lower if the worker is earning wages again, since future income benefits are reduced. A workers’ compensation attorney can assess how return-to-work status affects settlement value.

Approval Process

All settlements must be submitted to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation for review. The Board ensures the agreement meets Georgia law and that the worker understands the terms. Once approved, the settlement becomes legally binding.

2025 Program Changes and Trends

Georgia’s workers’ compensation program adjusts benefit levels and rules each year. In 2025, several updates affect injured workers, employers, and insurers across the state.

Updated Benefit Rates

The State Board of Workers’ Compensation has set new maximum and minimum weekly benefit rates effective July 1, 2025. These changes apply to temporary total disability, temporary partial disability, and death benefits. Workers injured after this date will receive payments based on the updated rates.

Fraud Prevention Measures

The program continues to strengthen fraud detection and prevention. Employers, insurers, and medical providers must follow tighter reporting requirements. Workers who file claims must provide accurate information about their injury, employment, and medical treatment.

Emphasis on Return-to-Work Programs

Employers are encouraged to provide light-duty or modified-duty positions for injured workers who can perform limited tasks. This approach reduces long-term disability costs and helps workers maintain earnings while recovering.

Greater Oversight of Settlements

The State Board is reviewing settlement agreements more closely. This ensures workers understand their rights before accepting a lump-sum or structured payment. Approval will focus on whether the settlement covers reasonable future medical and income needs.

Workers' Compensation Benefits Concept

Get Help Securing Your Workers’ Compensation Benefits!

If you have suffered a work-related injury or illness, our team at Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Atlanta is ready to protect your rights and fight for the benefits you deserve. We understand Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws and will guide you through every step of your claim.

Contact us at 470-518-5026 for a free case consultation today!