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Georgia Employment Laws

Georgia is an at-will employment state. Georgia has limited state-level anti-discrimination protections — the Georgia Fair Employment Practices Act only covers state government employers with 15 or more employees. Private-sector employees primarily rely on federal protections (Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FLSA). Georgia's state minimum wage is $5.15/hour, but the federal rate of $7.25/hour applies to most employers. Georgia does not require private employers to provide paid leave.

Last verified: 2026-02-25

Statute of Limitations

180 days (EEOC charge); varies for state claimsO.C.G.A. § 45-19-36

Federal discrimination charges must be filed with the EEOC within 180 days (300 days for state government employees). State Fair Employment Practices Act complaints must be filed within 180 days. The Georgia Equal Pay Act has a 2-year limitation.

Key Georgia Statutes

At-Will EmploymentO.C.G.A. § 34-7-1

Either the employer or employee may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason not prohibited by law, or for no reason at all.

Georgia Fair Employment Practices Act (State Government Only)O.C.G.A. § 45-19-20 et seq.

Prohibits employment discrimination by state agencies (15+ employees) based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or age. Does not cover private-sector employers and does not provide a private right of action.

Equal Pay for Equal Work ActO.C.G.A. § 34-5-1 et seq.

Prohibits sex-based pay discrimination. Applies to all public employers and private employers with 10 or more employees.

Whistleblower Act (Public Employees)O.C.G.A. § 45-1-4

Protects public employees from retaliation for reporting employer violations of law. Private-sector employees must rely on federal whistleblower protections.

Wage Payment RequirementsO.C.G.A. § 34-7-2

Employers must pay wages at least semi-monthly by lawful money, check, or credit transfer.

Official Sources

Georgia General Assembly — Official CodeGeorgia Department of Labor

Not Legal Advice

This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change — verify current statutes at Georgia General Assembly — Official Code. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.

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