Iowa Law: Plain-English Guides

Key Iowa facts

Security deposit deadline

Within 30 days after termination of the tenancy and receipt of the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, return the deposit or give a written statement of the specific reasons for withholding. Iowa Code § 562A.12(3)-(4)

Eviction notice for unpaid rent

3 days' written notice of nonpayment and of the landlord's intent to terminate if rent is not paid within that period. Iowa Code § 562A.27(2); § 648.3(1)

Small claims limit

$6,500, exclusive of interest and costs, for money judgments (actions commenced on or after July 1, 2018). The same limit applies to replevin. Iowa Code § 631.1(1)(b), (2), (3) (Iowa Code 2026)

Small estate affidavit

If the gross value of the decedent's personal property that would pass by will or intestacy is $50,000 or less and there is no real property, a successor can collect the property by affidavit after 40 days have passed… Iowa Code § 633.356

Cost of a protective order

The filing fee and court costs are waived for the plaintiff, and the clerk, sheriff and other officers serve papers without charge. Iowa Code § 236.3(3)

Minimum wage

$7.25 per hour (or the federal minimum wage, if higher). New employees may be paid an initial wage of at least $6.35 per hour during their first 90 calendar days with the employer. Iowa Code § 91D.1; DIAL Wage Claims FAQ

Final paycheck if fired

By the next regular payday for the pay period in which the wages were earned. Commission differences are due within 30 days. Iowa Code § 91A.4

Time limit to sue on a debt

10 years for actions founded on written contracts. Claims for unpaid rent have a separate 5-year limit. Iowa Code § 614.1(5)