Can I Get Fired After Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim in Iowa?

After a work injury, many employees hesitate to file a workers’ compensation claim because they’re afraid of losing their job.

It’s one of the most common questions we hear:

“Can my employer fire me for getting hurt at work?”

The short answer in Iowa is no — not legally.

But the full answer deserves some explanation.

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Iowa Law Protects Injured Workers

Under Iowa law, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against an employee for filing a valid workers’ compensation claim. Retaliation can include:

• Firing

• Demotion

• Reduced hours

• Unfair discipline

• Harassment after reporting an injury

If an employer takes negative action because you filed a claim, that may be grounds for a separate legal claim in addition to workers’ compensation benefits.

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Why Workers Still Get Fired After Filing Claims

Even though retaliation is illegal, some employers try to justify termination by claiming:

• “Performance issues”

• “Company restructuring”

• “Attendance problems”

• “Violation of company policy”

That’s why timing and documentation matter. When termination happens shortly after an injury or claim, it raises serious legal red flags.

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Can an Employer Ever Fire an Injured Worker?

Yes — but not because of the claim itself.

An employer may legally terminate an employee if:

• The business is closing or downsizing

• The worker violates clear company policy

• The employee cannot perform essential job duties after reaching maximum medical improvement and no reasonable accommodation exists

However, firing someone because they filed a workers’ comp claim is unlawful.

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What You Should Do If You’re Injured at Work

If you’ve been hurt on the job in Des Moines or anywhere in Iowa:

1. Report the injury immediately

2. Get medical treatment

3. Document everything

4. Avoid quitting or resigning without legal advice

5. Speak with a workers’ compensation attorney before making decisions

Quitting or being terminated can significantly affect your benefits — and your rights.

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Talk to Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Who Protect the Injured

At LLDDC Law, we represent only injured workers — never employers or insurance companies.

If you’re worried about your job after a work injury, we can help you understand:

• Your workers’ compensation benefits

• Your employment protections

• Whether retaliation may be occurring

 Des Moines, IA

 Free consultation

No fee unless we win

You don’t have to choose between your health and your livelihood.