Iowa Disability Resources
If you just got hurt on the job, received a diagnosis, or need to understand what Iowa offers for people with disabilities, this page covers the major programs and how to access them.
Workers' Compensation
The Iowa Division of Workers' Compensation handles claims.
What to do if you're hurt at work:- Report the injury to your employer immediately.
- Your employer selects the treating physician (you may switch after initial treatment).
- File a claim if benefits are denied.
- Notify your employer within 90 days.
- File a formal petition within 2 years for injuries or 3 years for occupational diseases.
- Nearly all Iowa employers must carry workers' compensation insurance.
- Temporary total disability pays 80% of after-tax spendable weekly earnings.
- Employer initially directs medical care.
- Phone: 515-281-5934 / 1-800-562-4692
- Web: iowaworkcomp.gov
State Disability Programs
Iowa does not have a state disability insurance program. Apply through federal SSDI/SSI.
Medicaid
Iowa Medicaid is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services.
How to apply:- Online at dhs.iowa.gov
- By phone: 1-855-889-7985
Vocational Rehabilitation
Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) helps people with disabilities find employment. Contact:- Phone: 515-281-4211 / 1-800-532-1486
- Web: ivrs.iowa.gov
Disability Rights
Disability Rights Iowa is the state's federally designated Protection and Advocacy organization. Contact:- Phone: 515-278-2502 / 1-800-779-2502
- Web: disabilityrightsiowa.org
Veterans Services
The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs provides state-level assistance.
Contact:- Phone: 515-242-5331 / 1-800-838-4692
- Web: va.iowa.gov
State Employment Protections
Iowa has the Iowa Civil Rights Act, which prohibits disability discrimination for employers with 4 or more employees.
Where to file a complaint:- Iowa Civil Rights Commission: 515-281-4121 / 1-800-457-4416
- Web: icrc.iowa.gov
Key Contacts
| Agency | Phone | Website | |--------|-------|---------| | Division of Workers' Compensation | 1-800-562-4692 | iowaworkcomp.gov | | Medicaid | 1-855-889-7985 | dhs.iowa.gov | | Vocational Rehabilitation Services | 1-800-532-1486 | ivrs.iowa.gov | | Disability Rights Iowa | 1-800-779-2502 | disabilityrightsiowa.org | | Iowa Civil Rights Commission | 1-800-457-4416 | icrc.iowa.gov | | Social Security Administration | 1-800-772-1213 | ssa.gov |