You have been injured at work. The company doctor has taken you “off work” for at least a week. Your employer agrees with the doctor and has you stay home until you recover from your injury.

How and when will you get paid? Who pays you? Will your rate of pay be as much?

Iowa Workers’ Compensation law requires temporary disability benefits to start on the fourth day following the injury assuming the injured worker is not working. Usually, your employer will have workers’ compensation insurance and the employer’s insurance will pay you. Generally, the weekly rate of compensation is around 80% of the employee’s “average weekly spendable earnings” at the time of the injury.” The spendable weekly earnings are gross weekly earning less payroll taxes.

I see in my practice, more often than not, insurance companies underpaying the correct rate of pay for injured workers. It is important to consult with an attorney if you have been injured at work. An attorney can make sure you’re receiving the correct amount of pay while your injured, receive the appropriate medical care, and help you get your benefits with less delay.