After an injury at work, it is natural to worry whether your workers’ compensation benefits can sustain you financially. This is especially true when your disability could render you incapable of returning to work for an extensive period.
There is no simple answer to this question. Whether you can live solely on worker’s comp depends on many factors.
Workers’ comp is designed to support the injured
Workers’ compensation benefits provide a financial cushion for workers while they recover from work-related injuries or illnesses. In Iowa, these benefits typically include:
- Medical expenses related to your injury
- Temporary disability benefits (about 80% of your average weekly wage)
- Permanent disability benefits, if applicable
- Vocational rehabilitation services
The amount you will receive depends on your weekly earnings and the severity of your injury, capped at a maximum of $1,849 per week. This may seem decent, but living solely on workers’ comp benefits can still be challenging.
Possible under certain circumstances
Iowa is 9th in affordability (5th in cost of living and 10th in housing affordability) compared to other states. Living off of workers’ benefits alone can be possible if you live here. Still, you may find making ends meet on a reduced income difficult, especially if you have no other source of funds.
For instance, suppose you used to earn $50,000 per year pre-injury. Your workers’ comp benefits might be around $30,000 per year. This substantial reduction in income can make it hard to pay bills, rent or mortgage and other essential expenses.
Workers’ comp benefits may also not cover all your medical expenses. What if your injury leads to unforeseen costs not covered by the legal tool, such as home modifications or specialized equipment? You may need to pay out-of-pocket for such expenses. This can be a challenge if no one else in your family can shoulder the costs.
With these limitations, it is wise to enlist the help of a legal professional. Many injured workers who received full compensation for their injuries have had an experienced attorney on their side. Their legal guidance can help you maximize your options and explore other avenues for financial support.
