After opening a company, one of the first practical questions founders ask is how they can actually pay themselves.

In 2026, Georgia offers flexible options for company owners, but understanding the difference between salary and dividends is essential.

Is a salary mandatory?

No. Company owners in Georgia are not required to pay themselves a monthly salary. Many founders choose not to, especially in the early stages of the business.

This flexibility is one of the reasons Georgia is attractive to international entrepreneurs.

Salary vs dividends

A salary is treated as a regular expense and comes with standard tax obligations. Dividends, on the other hand, are distributed from profits and taxed separately.

Depending on your business model and cash flow, one option may be more suitable than the other.

What most founders choose in practice

Many foreign founders operating service-based or digital businesses prefer to pay themselves through dividends, while keeping operational costs low.

There is no single “correct” method — the right choice depends on your activity and long-term plans.

Why guidance matters

Choosing the wrong payout method can lead to unnecessary taxes or compliance issues later.

StartGE helps founders understand their options clearly and choose a structure that works both legally and financially.

In Georgia, founders have the flexibility to pay themselves in a way that fits their business — not the other way around.