NOT LEGAL OR FINANCIAL ADVICE
This content is for educational purposes only. Laws change frequently and vary by circumstance. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state before taking any legal action. We are not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on this information.
Georgia Freelance Invoice Laws
General information about collecting unpaid invoices in Georgia
Last Updated: 2025-01-01 • Always verify with a Georgia attorney
Late Fee Limit
No statutory limit for B2B contracts
Interest Rate
7% per annum (legal rate); 12% by written agreement
Small Claims Limit
$15,000
Statute of Limitations
6 years for written contracts, 4 years for oral
Additional Context
Late Fees: Late fees must be reasonable and specified in the contract. Georgia courts will enforce reasonable contractual fees.
Interest: Parties can agree to up to 5% per month (60% annually) for business loans over $3,000.
Small Claims: Magistrate courts handle small claims. Georgia has one of the higher limits, making it freelancer-friendly for larger disputes.
General Best Practices
These are general suggestions, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.
- ✓ Use written contracts—you get 6 years vs 4 for oral agreements
- ✓ Include specific late fee and interest provisions
- ✓ Send invoices with clear due dates and itemization
- ✓ Document all scope changes and client approvals
- ✓ File in magistrate court for claims up to $15,000
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗ Relying on oral agreements (shorter statute of limitations)
- ✗ Not knowing Georgia's high $15,000 small claims limit
- ✗ Missing the 6-year deadline for written contracts
- ✗ Not sending formal demand letters before filing
- ✗ Filing in wrong county
When to Consult an Attorney
For invoices over $15,000 or complex disputes. Georgia's high small claims limit means you can often go solo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims limit in Georgia?
Georgia magistrate courts handle claims up to $15,000—one of the highest limits in the US. Filing fees are typically $45-$75. Great for freelancers with larger unpaid invoices.
How long do I have to sue for an unpaid invoice in Georgia?
You have 6 years for written contracts and 4 years for oral agreements. The clock starts from when the contract was due or breached.
What interest rate can I charge on overdue invoices in Georgia?
The legal rate is 7% per annum. For business loans over $3,000, you can contractually agree to up to 5% monthly (60% annually).
Where do I file a small claims case in Georgia?
File in the magistrate court of the county where the defendant resides or where the contract was to be performed. Metro Atlanta has multiple magistrate courts.
Do I need a collection license in Georgia?
No license needed to collect your own debts. Third-party collectors must comply with Georgia's Fair Business Practices Act and federal FDCPA.
Sources & References
These are reference sources only. Laws change—verify current statutes before taking action.
- Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) § 7-4-2 (Interest)
- O.C.G.A. § 15-10-2 (Magistrate Court Jurisdiction)
- O.C.G.A. § 9-3-24 (Statute of Limitations)
- Georgia Magistrate Courts
IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This is NOT legal or financial advice. The information on this page is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal, financial, or professional advice.
Laws change frequently. State laws, court rules, and regulations are subject to change without notice. The information presented here may not reflect the most current legal developments or may not apply to your specific situation.
Consult a licensed professional. Before taking any action based on the information on this website, you should consult with a licensed attorney in Georgia who can provide advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
No attorney-client relationship. Viewing this information does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Happy Freelance Life or its creators.
No liability. Happy Freelance Life and its creators disclaim all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on any information on this website. You assume full responsibility for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
If you need legal help, please contact the Georgia State Bar Association for attorney referrals or a legal aid organization in your area.
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Take the QuizThis information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Georgia attorney for specific legal guidance. This page was last updated on 2025-01-01. For current legal information, consult the official Georgia state statutes or a licensed Georgia attorney. Happy Freelance Life is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.