CLASSES OF EMPLOYEES EXCLUDED FROM IOWA WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BENEFITS

Generally, most workers employed in the State of Iowa, and consequently their employers, are subject to the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Act. However, there are some employees which are statutorily defined as not being employees. For a strong rural state like Iowa, one of the most important classes to consider are those persons engaged in agricultural pursuits. Generally, spouses, parents, brothers, sisters, children and stepchildren of an agricultural employer are not covered under the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Act. Further, non-relative employees engaged in agricultural pursuits or operations connected with agricultural matters may be covered under the Act if they make $2,500.00 or more during the calendar year preceding the injury from the alleged employer. ICA §85.1(3)(b).

This is only one class of alleged employees who are not automatically covered under the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Act. For questions regarding applicable employees, please contact Baylor Evnen attorney Paul Barta.