Detailed Answer
If you suffered a workplace injury in Iowa, state law requires you to report the injury to your employer and for your employer to file a claim with the Iowa Division of Workers’ Compensation. While the Division does not publish an online register of all first reports, you can confirm that your claim was filed by following these steps:
- Ask your employer’s human resources or safety department. Iowa Code §85.23 requires you to notify your employer within 90 days of an injury. After notification, Iowa Code §85.16 requires the employer to file an Employer’s First Report of Injury with the insurer and the Division within four business days. Ask HR for confirmation of the filing and a copy of the report.
- Contact the workers’ compensation insurer or third-party administrator. Insurers track all injury reports. Provide your name, date of injury and employer. They can confirm they received your employer’s First Report and have registered the claim with the Division.
- Call the Iowa Division of Workers’ Compensation. You can call 1-515-281-6500 or email [email protected]. Provide your name, date of injury and employer details. The Division can verify whether it received the First Report of Injury and provide your claim number.
- Request a copy of your claim file. Iowa’s open records law allows you to request public records from the Division. A certified copy of your employer’s report confirms the filing date, report number and claim status.
- Review correspondence from the insurer. If your claim moves forward, the insurer will send you notices of benefit payments, medical bill payments and settlement discussions. These documents demonstrate that your claim is active.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney to discuss your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Keep written records of all communications with HR, the insurer and the Division, including dates, times and names you spoke with.
- Send injury notices to your employer by certified mail or email with delivery/read receipts, then save proof of delivery.
- Ask for your claim number early and keep all claim-related documents in one secure file.
- If your employer misses the four-business-day deadline under §85.16, you can still pursue your claim but note the delay in your records.
- Visit the Division’s worker compensation page for forms and updates: https://iwd.iowa.gov/workers-compensation