Georgia Churches with 3+ Employees: Workers' Comp Is Not Optional

Georgia requires workers’ compensation insurance for any employer with three or more employees. Churches are not exempt. If your church has three or more paid staff members — including part-time employees — you are legally required to carry workers’ comp coverage.

What the law says

Under Georgia Code § 34-9-2, employers with three or more employees must provide workers’ compensation coverage. There is no religious exemption. The Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation enforces this requirement and can levy penalties for non-compliance.

What most churches get wrong

Many Georgia churches assume they’re too small to need workers’ comp, or that their status as a religious organization provides an exemption. Neither is true. If your church has a pastor, an administrative assistant, and a part-time custodian, you need workers’ comp.

What to do about it

If your church has three or more employees and doesn’t currently carry workers’ compensation insurance, contact your insurance advisor immediately. This isn’t a coverage gap — it’s a legal compliance issue. Your MinistrySure advisor can help you add workers’ comp coverage quickly and at competitive rates through carriers that specialize in ministry.