Georgia Overtime Laws

  Georgia offers limited state-level protection for overtime work, making federal law the primary source of rights for employees. While Georgia has a minimum wage law, its overtime regulations are essentially governed by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

 

Key Points About Overtime in Georgia:

  • FLSA Takes Precedence: Georgia employees must rely on the FLSA for overtime protections. This means they should receive 1.5 times their regular pay rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

 

  • No State Overtime Enforcement: Georgia has no state agency dedicated to investigating overtime violations. Employees must rely on the U.S. Department of Labor or pursue private lawsuits to enforce their rights.

Georgia Minimum Wage

  Although Georgia has a state minimum wage law, it’s lower than the federal minimum wage. Therefore, most employers in Georgia must adhere to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.

Statute of Limitations

  Since Georgia overtime claims typically fall under the FLSA, the federal statute of limitations applies. This means employees have 2 years to file a claim for unpaid overtime, or 3 years if the violation is deemed “willful.”

Damages for unpaid overtime

Georgia employees can typically recover the following damages under federal law:

                      • Unpaid overtime wages
                      • Liquidated (double) damages
                      • Attorneys’ fees

Overtime Exemptions in Georgia

  Georgia follows federal guidelines for overtime exemptions. Courts rely on the FLSA and its regulations to determine which employees are exempt from overtime requirements.

Need Legal Help with Georgia Overtime?

  Understanding overtime laws in Georgia means understanding federal regulations. If you believe your employer has violated your overtime rights, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel. Our experienced overtime attorneys can help you navigate the FLSA and pursue a claim for unpaid wages.