Iowa Workers Compensation-Workmans Compensation

Iowa Workers Compensation Insurance Rules

Iowa Workers Compensation

1. Does my Iowa business need workers compensation insurance?

In Iowa, most employers are required to provide workers compensation insurance coverage for their employees. A procedure exists that permits employers to apply to the Insurance Commissioner to become certified to self-insured rather than purchase insurance.

2. In Iowa is there any exemptions from carrying workers compensation insurance?

Sole proprietors, partners in a partnership, and members of a limited liability company are not considered employees and therefore are exempt from workers compensation coverage. They may, however, elect to be covered by purchasing workers compensation insurance that expressly covers them.

3. Does Iowa workers compensation law have specific requirements for subcontractors/contractors and sole proprietors?

Again, sole proprietors are exempt from workers compensation insurance coverage, however, they may elect to purchase a policy.

Independent contractors operating as sole proprietors are not required to carry workers compensation insurance.

A contract that designates a person to be an independent contractor does not make the person an independent contractor if the person functions as an employee.

Employee Leasing and Staffing Companies

Using a PEO or staffing company to obtain your workers compensation may be a good alternative to purchasing your own workers compensation policy. Leasing companies handle your payroll, w-2 forms, unemployment and workers compensation claims. In many cases the down payment required to obtain a new workers compensation policy is high and many new businesses cannot afford the down payment. Another advantage, based on my experience, is that you will never get audited because you pay as you go for your coverage. We represent numerous leasing and staffing companies who in many cases offer deep discounts on your workers compensation coverage that you will not find from standard workers compensation insurance carriers.

USL&H & The Jones Act

We have excellent workers compensation programs for these specialty risks requiring this endorsement. If you are unsure and want to read either the USL&H or Jones Act I have provided helpful links below for you convenience. I have found them to be the most detailed and good resources on the laws.

If you need a quote that requires this coverage

Click Here for a USL&H Quote

Click here for the complete USL&H Act, courtesy of Cornell University.
Click here for: USL&H & Jones Act Information
Defense Base Act Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation

Iowa Workers Compensation

Iowa Workers Compensation Links

Frequently Asked Questions

Iowa Workers Compensation forms and publications

Iowa workers compensation contact name and numbers