Longer Review Period Expected for Submitted Settlement Applications Before the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commission

Recently, the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commissioner notified members of the Iowa State Bar Association Workers’ Compensation Section of a change in the review process for settlement documents. Previously, the Commission had a policy of allowing “walk-ins” for a quick approval of settlement applications which resulted in same-day approval. However, the Commission has recently indicated that the walk-in procedure is no longer available absent prior appointments being scheduled.

The reality is that this generally only effects settlements involving counsel in the greater Des Moines area. However, many claimants’ counsel in Des Moines often would request that documents be sent directly to them to allow them to walk-in and have the settlements approved immediately.

For the more commonly used mail-in approval process, there is no indication that there will be significant delays.