Am I Getting the Right Weekly Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Iowa?

7016408197 • November 17, 2025

Am I Getting the Right Weekly Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Iowa?

After a work injury, many employees wonder:

“Is the insurance company paying me the correct weekly amount?”

It’s a critical question. Iowa law entitles injured workers to weekly compensation if they miss more than three days of work. But how that payment is calculated isn’t always clear.

How Weekly Workers’ Compensation Rates Are Calculated

Your weekly check is based on your gross average weekly wage from the 13 weeks before your injury. This includes:

Your hourly rate
The average number of hours worked, including overtime (at straight time)
Certain bonuses or shift differentials

Example:

If you earned $10.50/hour and averaged 43 hours per week (including 3 overtime hours), your gross weekly wage would be:

$10.50 × 43 = $451.50

If you’re married with three children, your workers’ comp rate would be around $304.46.

Why It’s Important to Double-Check

No two cases are the same. Hours, dependents, second jobs, or bonuses can all affect the calculation. Insurance companies sometimes make mistakes—or leave out important details.

What You Can Do
  • Ask the insurance company for a written breakdown of how they calculated your rate.
  • Contact the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commissioner to confirm the accuracy.
  • Talk to a qualified attorney to ensure you’re getting paid fairly.
We Can Help

If you’re unsure about your workers’ compensation rate, we’re here to help. Contact LLDDC Law for a free consultation to review your case and protect your rights.
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