When a loved one loses their life because of a work-related injury or illness, Iowa law allows qualifying dependents to receive death benefits under the state’s workers’ compensation system. These benefits can help ease the financial strain while your family grieves. However, navigating the legal process can be emotionally and legally difficult, especially without proper guidance.
At Hedberg & Boulton, P.C., we have fought for Iowa workers since 1954, with over 60 years of experience. Our Des Moines-based team, deeply rooted in the community, offers caring yet aggressive advocacy. We also serve Spanish-speaking families, ensuring clear guidance for workers’ compensation death benefits.
Iowa law allows certain family members to receive weekly payments when someone dies from a job-related incident. The benefits go to:
If multiple dependents qualify, benefits are divided accordingly. These benefits usually equal 80% of the deceased worker’s weekly spendable earnings, capped by state maximums. They may last until a surviving spouse remarries or children reach the legal age limits. Reasonable burial expenses (not exceeding 12 times the statewide average weekly wage at the time of death) are also paid.
To qualify, you must notify the employer within 90 days of the incident, and the claim must be filed within two years of the date of death. These timelines are strict. Missing them could permanently block your right to compensation.
Additionally, paperwork, forms and insurance company resistance can confuse even the most organized families. Having our lawyer by your side can make all the difference in times like these.