If you work part-time in Georgia, you might wonder whether you qualify for workers’ compensation if you get hurt on the job. Many people think benefits only apply to full-time workers, but Georgia law protects most employees, regardless of their hours. Understanding your rights can help you take the right steps after an injury.
Who qualifies as an employee in Georgia
Under Georgia law, nearly every business with three or more employees must provide workers’ compensation coverage. This rule includes full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers. If you receive a regular paycheck and your employer controls your work hours and duties, you likely count as an employee. Independent contractors, however, usually don’t qualify for coverage.
What benefits part-time workers can receive
Part-time employees receive the same types of benefits as full-time workers. These include medical care for your injury, reimbursement for travel to medical appointments, and wage replacement if you miss more than seven days of work. Your wage benefits are based on your average weekly earnings, so while you may receive less than a full-time worker, the calculation still reflects your normal pay rate.
How to file a claim as a part-time worker
If you get injured while working part-time, report the injury to your employer as soon as possible—ideally within 30 days. Your employer should then file a claim with their workers’ compensation insurer. Keep copies of all documents and medical records, as these can help support your claim if questions arise. You have one year from the date of your injury to file a formal claim with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation if your benefits aren’t approved.
What to remember about your rights
Part-time workers have the same legal protections as full-time employees under Georgia’s workers’ compensation system. As long as your injury happened during work, you have the right to medical treatment and wage replacement benefits. Don’t assume your hours worked affect your eligibility—Georgia law covers you all the same.