Georgia COVID-19 Eviction Protections: What Renters Need to Know

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed eviction laws across the United States, including in Georgia. While most federal COVID-19 eviction protections have ended, some local and state-level policies and court processes may still affect how evictions work. If you're renting in Georgia and facing stress about rent payments or possible eviction, understanding the latest status of COVID-19 eviction measures is essential.

Has Georgia Extended Any COVID-19 Eviction Protections?

As of 2024, Georgia does not have active statewide COVID-19 eviction moratoriums in place. The federal eviction ban issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expired in August 2021, and Georgia did not pass its own long-term eviction pause. However, renters should know:

• Most of the emergency rules have expired, meaning evictions for nonpayment of rent are generally proceeding again in Georgia courts.
• Court procedures may continue to allow for remote hearings or electronic filings in some counties, depending on local court policies.
• Organizations and rental assistance programs created in response to COVID-19 may still offer help (see resources below).

How Georgia Eviction Law Works Post-COVID-19

Eviction for nonpayment of rent or lease violations in Georgia must still follow legal procedures under state law. Landlords cannot physically remove a tenant themselves; only the court may issue an eviction order after a legal process. The key law is the Georgia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

• Your landlord must provide a written notice before filing an eviction (also called a "dispossessory action") in court. Georgia law does not specify the notice length, but your lease terms might.^[1]
• After receiving a notice and court papers (usually called a "Summons"), you have seven days to respond.
• Failure to respond means the judge may issue a default eviction order.

If you are served with a dispossessory affidavit (the formal court eviction paperwork), review it carefully and consider seeking legal help.

Required Forms in Georgia Eviction Cases

• Dispossessory Affidavit (State Court of Georgia): This is the main eviction filing landlords use to start a case. Renters receive this form when the eviction process begins. You may view a sample and filing information at the Georgia Courts Official Forms Portal (look for "Dispossessory Affidavit"). It is used when a landlord claims a tenant should be removed for nonpayment or lease violations.
• Answer Form (Responding to a Dispossessory Case): Renters must use an Answer form to respond to the court within seven days of being served. Failing to respond can result in an automatic loss of the case. Find the Answer form and instructions from the Georgia Courts.

For example, if you receive eviction papers—"Dispossessory Affidavit"—from your landlord, you need to fill out and submit the Answer form within seven days.

Rental Assistance and Emergency Help

If you still face hardship due to COVID-19 impacts, Georgia's rental assistance programs and some local nonprofits may help with back rent or negotiating payment plans. Options include:

• Georgia Rental Assistance Program – Check if funds are still available or if waitlists are open for your area.
• Contact your county or city housing office for any local relief programs still active.
• Reach out to the Georgia Legal Aid for eviction defense services.

Tip: Always communicate with your landlord if you are struggling to pay rent—working out a payment plan may help prevent eviction.

Who Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Georgia?

The official tribunal for residential tenancy cases in Georgia is the Georgia Judicial Branch – Magistrate Courts, which hears most eviction cases.^[2]

Your Rights as a Renter

Eviction rules must be followed even after most COVID-19 policies have expired. Remember these rights:

• You must receive notice and court paperwork for any eviction attempt.
• Only court-ordered evictions are legal. Self-help or "lockouts" are not allowed.
• You have the right to present your side in court and to request more time if you need to secure new housing.

FAQ: COVID-19 Eviction Questions for Georgia Renters

1. Are any COVID-19 eviction protections still active in Georgia?
   No statewide COVID-19 eviction bans are currently in effect. However, some assistance programs and local court accommodations may still provide help.
2. How do I respond if I receive an eviction notice?
   File an "Answer" with your local court within seven days of receiving eviction papers using the Answer Form. This is your chance to explain your situation or raise defenses.
3. Can my landlord evict me for unpaid rent that accrued during COVID-19?
   Yes, landlords can seek eviction for unpaid COVID-19 rent once federal and state moratoriums end. You may be able to negotiate a repayment plan or seek rental assistance.
4. What resources are available if I'm at risk of eviction?
   Contact the Georgia Rental Assistance Program, Georgia Legal Aid, or your county housing authority for financial help and legal support.
5. What happens if I don't answer the eviction lawsuit?
   If you do not file an Answer with the court within seven days, the court may issue a default judgment and order your eviction.

Conclusion: What Georgia Renters Should Remember

• Most COVID-19 eviction protections have expired in Georgia, but legal process and renter rights remain in place.
• Always respond promptly to eviction notices by filing an Answer with the court.
• Rental assistance and legal services are still available and can help you stay housed or negotiate payment plans.

Staying informed about state laws and reaching out to available resources is your best defense against illegal or unfair evictions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Magistrate Courts – Handles eviction actions statewide (find your local court here)
• Georgia Rental Assistance Program – For emergency rent help
• Georgia Legal Aid – Free legal advice and representation for eviction defense
• Georgia Department of Community Affairs: Rental Assistance
• Georgia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Official state housing law

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1. Georgia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (2022)
2. Georgia Judicial Branch: Magistrate Courts

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