Política de Privacidad de Internet

Última Actualización: August 6, 2025

Su privacidad es importante para nosotros

Nuestra política de privacidad describe cómo colectamos y usamos información sobre usted. Esta política cubre sólo la información que colectamos en la página de Internet de Iowa Legal Aid y LiveHelp. Esta política no aplica a otras páginas que usted visita a través de la página de Iowa Legal Aid. Usted debe leer las políticas de privacidad de las otras páginas para saber cómo ellos coleccionan y usan información sobre usted. Cuando elija un enlace a otro sitio, usted está dejando la página web de Iowa Legal Aid.

Información que Coleccionamos en Formas y Solicitudes.

Si usted solicita asistencia en nuestra página, requerimos que nos provea cierta información personal, incluyendo su nombre, dirección, número de teléfono, ingresos, y número de seguro social.

  • Trataremos la información que nos provea a través de la solicitud en-línea del Centro de Auto-Ayuda como información confidencial.
  • Iowa Legal Aid usa la información personal que nos provee para contestar sus preguntas o para ayudarle a resolver sus problemas.
  • Esta información es necesaria para procesar su solicitud y comunicarnos con usted.
  • Iowa Legal Aid también usa esta información para ayudarnos a mejorar el contenido y el uso de nuestra página y los servicios que le ofrecemos a nuestros clientes.
  • No vendemos, intercambiamos, o rentamos su información personal a otros.
  • Su información personal es sólo vista por el personal de Iowa Legal Aid y abogados voluntarios.

Alerta para Víctimas o Sobrevivientes de Abuso

  • Computadoras en el hogar pueden ser un riesgo a su seguridad si está siendo abusada.
  • Cuando visite esta o cualquier otra página sobre violencia doméstico o sexual, es posible que su abusador encuentre lo que usted estaba viendo para ayuda o la información sobre violencia doméstica o sexual.
  • Usted puede encontrar más información en la siguiente página:
    https://www.thehotline.org/help/tech-social-media-safety-2/

¿Qué información LiveHelp obtiene?

LiveHelp obtiene información, tal com

  • información sobre la computadora, navegador de Internet, y proveedor de Internet que usted usa,
  • la ubicación aproximada de su computadora,
  • la fecha y el día que usted visita, y
  • las páginas de iowalegalaid.org que usted visita.

También, usted puede darle al navegador de LiveHelp información cuando usa LiveHelp. Esta información puede incluir

  • su nombre,
  • su dirección de e-mail, o
  • información sobre su problema legal.
  • Cada conversación es grabada por LiveChat, Inc., el programa que usamos (http://www.livechatinc.com).
  • LiveChat tiene una política de privacidad que dice qué información ellos coleccionan y cómo la usan.
  • Para más información sobre la política de privacidad de LiveChat, vea https://www.livechatinc.com/legal/privacy-policy/

¿Cómo Iowa Legal Aid usa la información coleccionada?

No vendemos, intercambiamos, o rentamos la información personal de otros.

LiveHelp puede usar la información

  • para entrenar navegadores de LiveHelp,
  • para evaluar LiveHelp,
  • para reportar el éxito del proyecto, o
  • para ejecutar otras labores administrativas.

Removeremos su nombre, dirección de e-mail, y otra información que otra persona podría usar para identificarle antes de nosotros usar esta información.

Sólo usaremos su dirección de e-mail o número de teléfono para comunicarnos con usted si nos ha dado el permiso para comunicarnos con usted más tarde.

¿Compartimos la información que coleccionamos en línea?

No, no compartimos ninguna información de usted a menos que sea requerido por ley.

¿Son las sesiones de LiveHelp codificadas?

Sí, LiveChat usa Secure Locket Layer (SSL) para codificar la información mientras va entre el especialista en la página de iowalegalaid.org y el visitante.

Privacidad de E-mail

  • Correo electrónico que usted envía por la Internet no está enteramente protegido contra intercepciones.
  • Si desea enviarnos información sensitiva como número de Seguro Social, su cuenta de banco, o sus números de tarjetas de crédito o de cargos, use aplicaciones o entrevistas en-línea o comuníquese con nosotros por correo o teléfono.

Análisis Google

IowaLegalAid.org usa Análisis Google para reunir estadísticas de uso. IowaLegalAid.org usará la información reunida para mejorar servicios de la web para sus usuarios. Análisis Google emplea cookies para determinar las sesiones de los usuarios, lo cual permite la colección de datos importantes sobre cómo nuestros usuarios utilizan IowaLegalAid.org. Análisis Google sólo usa cookies de primera parte para el análisis de datos. Esto significa que los cookies están vinculados a los dominios de la página web IowaLegalAid.org, y Análisis Google sólo usará esos datos de cookies para análisis estadístico relacionado a sus hábitos de navegación en las páginas web de IowaLegalAid.org. Según Google, los datos reunidos no pueden ser cambiados o recuperados por servicios de otros dominios. Si usted lo elige, puede no participar apagando cookies en su configuración de preferencias en su navegador web. Para más información sobre Análisis Google, por favor visite la página web de Google.

¿Con quién puedo comunicarme sobre la política de privacidad?

Puede comunicarse con info@iowalaw.org si tiene cualquier pregunta sobre la política de privacidad.

Cambios a la política

  • Si, y cuando, esta política cambia, Iowa Legal Aid pondrá los cambios en nuestra página y le dejaremos saber a los visitantes sobre los cambios.
  • Visite nuestra página para cambios cuando visite nuestra página.

Recursos Relacionados

Evitar Estafas

¿Qué sucede si alguien dice que es de la División de Seguros o mi compañía de seguros y ofrece acelerar mi reclamación si...

Disaster Legal Hotlines

Iowa Legal Aid currently runs two hotlines for disaster issues. One is for the 2020 and 2021 derechos in 2020 and 2021. The...

How Do I Get My Landlord to Make Repairs?

Wondering how to give notice to your landlord about needed repairs? In Iowa, tenants must follow specific legal steps...

Asistencia alimentaria: ayudando a las familias a tener comida suficiente

El objetivo del programa de asistencia alimentaria es ayudar para que tenga más comida en su mesa. El programa está...

Child Support Recipients May Have Funds Available for Withdrawal

Recipients of child support may be unaware that there are funds available for withdrawal through a process called...

Waiting Lists and Public Housing

Q: I have applied for a voucher, but it may take two years or more for my name to come up. What can I do? A: Most Public...

Divorce in Iowa Without an Attorney

Many people worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer when deciding whether to get divorced in Iowa. The Iowa Supreme Court...

Veterans’ Issues Fact Sheet: VA Pensions

VA Pensions Are you a Veteran with a disability or other health problem NOT related to your service? You may be eligible...

Medicaid Payment for Nursing Home Care

Need Medicaid but your income is too high? You may still qualify with a Miller Trust (Medical Assistance Income Trust)....

Attorney, Court, and Guardianship or Conservatorship Fees

There are costs associated with bringing a guardianship or conservatorship case. There are filing fees and other court...

Debo dinero al IRS (Servicio Interno de Ingresos). ¿Qué puedo hacer?

Supongamos que el IRS le ha enviado una carta hace unos años indicando que usted le debe dinero. En el momento, usted no...

Am I an “Employee” or “Independent Contractor” and Why It Really Matters

When you are an employee? Your employer must pay ½ of your Social Security and Medicare taxes. This equals 7.65% of your...

Mortgage Foreclosures and Land Contract Forfeitures

People are usually not able to pay in full when they buy a home. As a result, most Iowans finance homes through either a...

2024 Iowa Legal Aid Impact by County

Hope. Dignity. Justice. These values come to life every day at Iowa Legal Aid, where we stand alongside Iowans facing some...

Buying a House

Some people who buy a home borrow the money from a bank or other lender. The seller gets paid in full for the property, and...

Consumer Issues When You Aren’t Married

A variety of issues can come up when a couple lives together but is not married. This article takes a look at consumer...

Rights of People in Civil Commitment

A person who is “mentally ill” and “dangerous” can be made to get mental health treatment. There are specific rules about...

Food Assistance in a Disaster (Food Stamps)

I have a food stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card from Iowa. Can I use it in another state where I am staying?...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre ejecución hipotecaria y confiscaciones

Estoy preocupado de que podríamos perder la casa. Estamos teniendo problemas para hacer pagos. ¿Qué puede ocurrir? Hay dos...

Be on the Lookout for Tax Preparer Fraud

Unfortunately, some unscrupulous preparers have prepared false claims on tax returns using the promise of large refunds to...

Iowa Legal Aid Disaster Legal Assistance Mobile App

Iowa Legal Aid Disaster Legal Assistance Mobile App Available in the iTunes and Google Play Stores Here: Download app for...

Disasters Happen

In Iowa, natural disasters happen every year. Ice storms and blizzards can occur in the winter. Tornadoes, severe storms,...

Creditor Threats – Are They for Real?

Health problems, job loss, the death of a spouse and other events can make it hard to pay your bills. Creditors and debt...

Resolviendo los problemas familiares con mediación

Muchas personas de Iowa sólo tienen contacto con el sistema judicial cuando tienen un problema con las leyes de familia....

¿Ha solicitado usted una exención de tasas escolares?

Las tasas escolares ciertamente pueden hacerse costosas. Si usted tiene más de un hijo en la escuela, las tasas pueden...

Emancipation and Minor Guardianships

Children are not allowed to make their own decisions. Instead, they rely on parents to help them make good decisions....

Assistive Technology and Rights of Persons With Disabilities

People with disabilities, including those who use assistive technology, have many rights. Here is just a summary of some...

Las cortes y agencias deben proporcionar intérpretes para las personas que no hablan inglés

Cada día se presentan muchas demandas legales. Las personas involucradas en una demanda legal se pueden sentir preocupadas...

Taxes and Marriage

When discussing taxes and marriage, there are a few myths to be examined and pitfalls to avoid. Myths Myth 1: I have to...

Landlord and Tenant Law Questions and Answers

Got Questions About Your Rights as a Renter in Iowa? Whether you’re facing eviction, struggling with repairs, or...

Ausentismo escolar

Los niños pueden faltar a la escuela por muchas razones. Es posible que los estudiantes estén enfermos, tengan miedo de...

Do I Have to Sell or Liquidate All of My Assets to Qualify for Medicaid?

Most Medicaid programs have an asset or “resource” limit.  Many assets or resources, however, are “exempt,” meaning...

What Happens with Child Custody when a Parent is Deployed

When parents are deployed, custody and visitation arrangements may have to change. The law sets out some things to do when...

Towed Cars

People have many questions when they come outside and find their car is missing. This article will answer some questions...

Paying Back an Overpayment of Unemployment Benefits

Sometimes you get unemployment benefits when you are not supposed to. You will have to pay them back. How can this...

Listas de Espera y Viviendas Públicas

Pregunta:  Yo he solicitado un vale, pero es posible que tome dos años o más antes que mi nombre aparezca. ¿Qué puedo...

Tenga cuidado con los estafadores de impuestos

Los estafadores han estado llamando a inmigrantes en todo el país. En estas llamadas dicen que son empleados del IRS. Ellos...

Housing Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Anyone may have a hard time finding a rental unit he or she can afford. There is not enough low- and moderate-income...

Custody Order for Parents with Open CINA Cases

Parents involved in open Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) cases have a way to get a court to order permanent custody,...

Reasons Landlords Might Deny Your Rental Application

Landlords might refuse to rent to you for various reasons. Common ones are: prior evictions on your record, criminal...

El reembolso de FEMA

¿Qué es el reembolso de FEMA? Después de que ocurre un desastre, la Agencia Federal de Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus...

Debts Owed to Federal Government Can Be Collected Through Social Security Benefit Checks

Social Security Benefits Subject to Offset to Collect Non-Tax Federal Debts The U.S. Department of Treasury and Social...

Beware of Tax Scammers

Scammers saying they are IRS employees may try to scare taxpayers with harassing telephone calls or messages. The callers...

FEMA Appeals Process

What if I do not agree with the amount of money that FEMA is going to give me? After you file your FEMA application, FEMA...

Embargos en Iowa

¿Qué es un embargo? Se produce un embargo cuando se toma su dinero de una persona distinta de usted para pagar una...

Intentional Program Violations Food Assistance

Iowa’s food assistance program is also known as SNAP.  If the Iowa Department of Health and Human services (HHS)...

Food Assistance: Helping Families Have Enough to Eat

The goal of the Food Assistance Program is to help you put more food on your table. The program is designed for you and...

Disaster Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (Disaster Food Stamps)

What is the Disaster Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program? This program is also called disaster food stamps. ...

Asuntos Financieros de los Residentes de Tercera Edad de Iowa

Muchos residentes mayores de Iowa se pueden encontrar en una situación desconocida con los asuntos financieros,...

Immigration and Citizenship

Obtaining legal immigration status. The most common way that an agricultural worker and his/her family can obtain legal...

What is a “Durable Health Care Power of Attorney?”

A Durable Health Care Power of Attorney is a legal document. It authorizes a person to be your agent to make decisions...

Shopping for an Assistive Technology Device

Persons with disabilities may face challenges with everyday tasks like getting around, speaking or reading. "Assistive...

How do I get my stuff back? What to know about replevin cases in Iowa

What is "replevin?" Most of the time, lawsuits people file ask a court to give someone money to compensate them for...

Survivor Benefits

Question. My husband recently passed away. His monthly pension check pays many of our bills. Will these payments continue?...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre manutención de hijos

¿Quién emite las órdenes de manutención de hijos? Las órdenes de manutención de hijos se establecen usando, o bien un...

What Should I Do If I Get Court Papers?

Most people are afraid when they get court papers. Here is some advice on the court system and what to do if you get court...

From Crisis to Stability

Iowa Legal Aid was appointed to represent Ashley after her children were removed due to substance abuse.

Problemas en la declaración de quiebra (Bankruptcy Issues)

Yo perdí todo debido a un desastre natural. ¿La presentación de bancarrota me va ayudar? La bancarrota puede ayudarle...

Asistencia Alimenticia en caso de desastre (cupones de alimentación)

Tengo una tarjeta de Transferencia de Beneficios Electrónicos (EBT) de Iowa. ¿Puedo usarla en otro estado donde me quedo?...

Appealing a Managed Care Organization (MCO) Decision

Iowa Medicaid has switched to Managed Care.  Almost everyone who has Medicaid in Iowa is now assigned to a Managed...

El número de identificación personal del contribuyente o ITIN

¿Por qué debo presentar una declaración de impuestos o pagar impuestos? Aunque muchas personas consideran el pago de...

Alternatives to Guardianship and Conservatorship

Many people have situations where a family member may need help with decisions or daily activities, such as paying bills or...

H-2A Workers and Tax Withholding

In the U.S. there is a very common saying: “There are two things that are certain, death and paying taxes.” Most people who...

Avoiding Fake Check Scams

Avoiding Fake Check Scams Scams involving fake checks are common.  There are also scams involving fake money orders....

Accidents with No (or Not Enough) Car Insurance

I was in a car accident that wasn’t my fault, but I didn’t have car insurance (or my insurance didn't cover the claimed...

Do you really need a bankruptcy?

A Chapter 7 Bankruptcy is a process under federal law designed to help people who can no longer afford to pay off the debt...

Teens Rights in Your Dating Relationship

You have many rights in your relationship with your girlfriend or boyfriend. You have the right to spend time with your...

Protect Yourself with Affordable Car Insurance

Iowa drivers and owners of vehicles need to consider how damages will be covered if they are in an accident or if their car...

Iowa Legal Aid launches mobile law office for disaster response

Watch the video and read the full article from KCRG below.

Derechos de Trabajadores Agrícolas

Los trabajadores agrícolas tienen importantes derechos legales. El siguiente es un resumen de algunos derechos importantes...

Adoption Records in Iowa

State law regulates the adoption process, including how much information is available to an adoptee, adoptive parent(s),...

Important Credit Card Protections

The CARD Act of 2009 gives consumers who use credit cards and gift cards many protections. Advance Notice of Changes in an...

Risks of Paying Bills Online

It wasn’t that long ago when most of us would sit down at our desks or kitchen tables, gather all of the bills that...

Recursos en caso de desastre

Ayuda general en caso de desastre: ● Recursos de autoayuda para desastres de Iowa Legal Aid. En Inglés. En Español. Los...

Settle your Tax debt for Cents on the Dollar

This is a common phrase you hear on television ads. There are a number of tax settlement firms that advertize on TV....

Buying a Used Car

Buying a car is a necessity for many, but it can also be a stressful and overwhelming process. Keep reading for some tips...

Guardianship and Conservatorship: Words to Know

Agent –in a power of attorney, it means the person who gets the power to act on behalf of the principal. Authority – the...

Employment Rights

Protect Yourself: Keep track of your hours! Write down the hours that each person in your family works every day. At...

Niños Tienen Derechos a la Educación

Todos los niños, sin importar su estado migratorio, tienen el derecho a asistir a escuelas públicas sin coste. La Corte...

Assistive Technology and Protecting Rights in Education

Many children with disabilities use assistive technology (AT) to help them learn or function at school. The need for some...

Housing and Land Contracts

Everyone has the legal right to decent, safe, and sanitary housing. Farmworkers are protected by state and federal laws...

A Spouse’s Right to Retirement Assets (including Pensions) in a Divorce

Question: My husband recently filed for divorce. He works for a company that has an excellent pension plan. Although I am...

Who Are Iowa’s Farmworkers?

Who are Iowa's Farmworkers? Every year thousands of farmworkers are hired in Iowa. Many of these workers do not live in...

Food Stamps and Immigrants

The Food Assistance Program helps prevent hunger in America. This program helps buy food in stores, at farmers’ markets,...

Las Amenazas de los Acreedores-¿Ellas son de verdad?

Los problemas de salud, pérdida del trabajo, la muerte de un esposo y otros eventos pueden hacer que sea difícil pagar sus...

¿De verdad necesita usted una bancarrota?

Una bancarrota por Capítulo 7 es un proceso bajo la ley federal diseñado para ayudar a gente que ya no puede pagar la deuda...

Cortes de servicio de agua

El servicio de agua es esencial, igual que la electricidad y el gas. Estos servicios esenciales se llaman “servicios...

Es Ilegal que Alguien Te Obligue a Trabajar o Tener Sexo

¿Alguna vez alguien te hizo trabajar cuando no podías o te cobró una tarifa por encontrar trabajo? ¿Alguna vez tu...

Your Health in the Workplace

Workers’ disability compensation (compensation to workers who are injured in the workplace) will pay you if you are injured...

Beware of Free Trial Offers

Some consumers get charged for products or services and don't even know it. This happens especially with "free trial...

What You Need to Know about Property Taxes

Maybe you just paid off your mortgage (congratulations!) or perhaps your aunt died and left you her house. You know you...

Senior Citizens’ Guide to Fair Housing

Many people think of fair housing laws as dealing only with race. In 1988, the Fair Housing Law was changed to include...

Legal Aid Helps Women Experiencing Violence

Iowa Legal Aid helps clients who experience intimate partner violence (IPV). Iowa Legal Aid gives civil legal help in...

Types of Notices from Landlords

Landlords nearly always have to give a tenant a written notice before filing an eviction case. The notice required in...

Los inmigrantes y el mercado de atención médica de la Ley del Cuidado de Salud a Bajo Costo

Tener cobertura de seguro médico en los Estados Unidos es importante. Desafortunadamente, muchas familias no pueden obtener...

Involuntary Transfers from Nursing Homes

Moving into a nursing home can be a traumatic event for many people. Surroundings are not familiar. The person loses a...

HHS Overpayments

Sometimes a person who is receiving a public benefit (like FIP, food assistance (SNAP), or Medicaid) from Iowa’s Department...

Pre-Need Funeral Arrangements – Pros and Cons

There are many advantages to planning and paying for your funeral in advance. Pre-need funeral arrangements let you choose...

Public and Client Complaint Procedures

Complaint Procedures 2025Download New Address Iowa Legal Aid's central office has moved!  Please mail the Complaint...

Lista de verificación de los documentos de desastre

NO ARRIESGUE SU VIDA DEJANDO PARA ULTIMO MINUTO LA COLECTA DE DOCUMENTOS Y OTROS ARTICULOS.  Reúna todo con antelación...

Paternity Fraud

Before You Tell Him He’s The Father…. An Iowa Supreme Court case says a man could bring a law suit in the following...

Child Support Questions and Answers

Who makes child support orders? Orders for child support are established using either an administrative process or a court...

Divorcio en Iowa sin abogado

A mucha gente le preocupa el costo de contratar a un abogado cuando decide divorciarse en Iowa. El Tribunal Supremo de Iowa...

The Effective Date of your Veterans Affairs Compensation or Pension Claim

The “effective date” of a claim for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Compensation or Pension runs from whichever is...

Financing a Used Car

When you're looking for a new used vehicle, there are several places to shop. Franchised new car dealers have newer used...

Free Dental Care Available

The program, "Donated Dental Services," is for low-income elderly and disabled Iowans who are unable to get care they need....

How Do the Police Protect Victims of Domestic Abuse?

Often, police or other law enforcement officers respond to calls for help and have contact with domestic abuse victims in...

Immigrants and the Affordable Care Act’s Health Care Marketplace

Having health insurance coverage in the United States is important. Unfortunately, many families are unable to get health...

Cambiar su nombre en Iowa

Cambiar su nombre en Iowa Información sobre los tribunales de Iowa y formularios para el cambio de nombre Si usted desea...

Demandas por Tarjetas de Crédito

Me han Demandado por la Deuda de una Tarjeta de Crédito. ¿Qué Debo Hacer? Cuando a usted se le entrega una notificación de...

Frequently Asked Questions about Guardianships and Conservatorships

Why would I need a guardianship or conservatorship? People in different situations may need a guardian or conservator: Some...

Child Care Assistance for Low Income Families

If your household income is below a certain amount, you may qualify for childcare assistance from the Department of Health...

Un desastre ha afectado mi propiedad alquilada, ¿Y ahora qué?

En un desastre, el tiempo puede parecer moverse demasiado lento para algunas cosas y demasiado rápido para otras. Si usted...

How to Modify a Custody Order

Bob and Betty have two children: Charlie and Claire. Betty has custody of the children and Bob gets visits with them every...

Funeral Planning

Your funeral may be one of the most expensive consumer purchases you or your family ever makes. Most people, however, do...

Refinancing a Loan

A lot of people try to deal with debt by refinancing their loans. Refinancing means paying an old debt with a new debt....

Truancy

Children may miss school for lots of reasons. Children may be sick, afraid of being bullied, or too depressed to attend. If...

Financial Matters for Older Iowans

Many older Iowans may find themselves in unfamiliar territory when it comes to financial matters, especially after the...

Legal Rights of Persons with Disabilities

State and federal governments know that people who have a disability sometimes need extra protections or specific laws to...

Iowa Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment (POST)

There is a health care form in Iowa for patients making decisions about end of life health care treatment. The form is...

Active Disaster Declarations in Iowa

On April 6, 2026, the Governor issued a disaster declaration for Wapello County in response to severe weather that occurred...

Prescription Drug Patient Assistance Programs – Free or Low Cost Medications

Having a tough time stretching your budget to pay for expensive medications? A prescription drug patient assistance...

Urgent Assistance for Migrant Workers

There may be immigration consequences to enrolling in a public benefits program.  If you or a family member is concerned...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre violencia doméstica

¿Qué es violencia doméstica? Violencia doméstica es una agresión entre personas en ciertos tipos de relaciones. ¿Qué es...

Child Abuse Reports and Registries

What is considered child abuse in Iowa? The following actions are child abuse in Iowa: physical abuse, mental injury,...

Representación Limitada (servicios jurídicos desagregados)

¿Qué es la representación limitada? A veces se refiere como: Representación Limitada Servicio limitado Representación legal...

Malentendidos sobre Matrimonio por Derecho Consuetudinario (Matrimonio Consensual)

Ser casados les da a un hombre y una mujer ciertos derechos legales. Muchos de estos derechos legales no son importantes...

¿Cómo recupero mis posesiones? Lo que usted debe saber sobre los casos de reivindicación de bienes muebles en Iowa

¿Qué es la "reivindicación de bienes muebles"? La mayoría de las veces, las demandas que la gente presenta piden a un...

Questions and Answers About Limited Benefit Plans

What is a Limited Benefit Plan? If you are receiving cash benefits from the Family Investment Program (FIP), there are...

¡Usted Tiene Derechos Cuando Termina Su Trabajo!

¿Le ha pasado esto?:  Usted vive en un campo de migrantes y le despiden o deja el trabajo. El patrón le dice que usted...

Have You Applied for a Waiver of School Fees?

School fees can really add up. If you have more than one child in school, the fees can come to hundreds of dollars. Many...

Bullying in Iowa

Many parents and providers are unsure of what rights their children may have if their child has been bullied at school....

Know How to Hold it – Pros and Cons of Certain Types of Property Ownership

The manner in which you own your property can have important consequences. The common forms of ownership are sole...

Inmigración

¿Necesito ser residente o ciudadano de los Estados Unidos para solicitar ayuda de emergencia en caso de un desastre? No....

What To Do If Someone Sues You After an Accident

If someone is injured by a car accident you cause, what happens if you are sued?  If you are sued, what can you do to...

Salvage Vehicles

Most consumers should be careful about buying salvage vehicles, though for some it will fit their needs. In Iowa, a...

Signer Beware! The Pitfalls of Nursing Home Agreements

Information Every day, elderly Iowans enter nursing homes for the first time. For some, it's a temporary stay to recover...

Garnishment in Iowa

What is garnishment? Garnishment is when your money is taken from someone other than you to pay a court judgment.  For...

Lifeline Discounted Phone Program

There is a program called Lifeline that helps low-income Iowans pay for basic telephone or internet service.  Lifeline...

Cómo conseguir una licencia de conducir restringida temporal (TRL)

¿Quién necesita una TRL? Muchas personas necesitan una licencia de conducir restringida temporal (TRL, por sus siglas en...

Informes y registros de abuso de menores

¿Qué se considera abuso de menores en Iowa? Las siguientes acciones se consideran abuso de menores en Iowa: el abuso...

Fair Housing Laws Protect Immigrants

Imagine you and your family are looking for an apartment. You see an ad that looks promising. The location is good, and the...

Supporting Iowa’s Seniors

As Iowa’s population ages, more older Iowans face legal challenges that put their health, housing, and independence at...

Seguro para inquilinos

¿Usted tiene protección en caso de que un desastre natural afecte a su casa alquilada?  ¿A dónde iría en caso de...

Termination of Parental Rights

What Are "Parental Rights"? When you have "parental rights" to a child, you are that child's parent in the eyes of the law....

¡Reclame todos los créditos tributarios de sus ingresos de trabajo (EIC) que se ha ganado!

¿Cuánto dinero puedo obtener? Si usted tiene hijos que califican, usted puede obtener hasta $6,935 dólares del EIC. Si...

La suspensión de impuestos a la propiedad para las personas que reciben Ingresos de Seguridad Suplementaria (SSI)

Muchas personas con una incapacidad son dueños o están en el proceso de comprar su casa. Es posible que les sea difícil...

What Filing Status Do I Use for my Taxes?

Your filing status can influence the amount of the standard deduction, the amount of tax, and the amount of or eligibility...

Find a Location for Free Tax Help

Iowa Legal Aid's Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) is a special project that can help low-income Iowans. Providing...

Asalto Sexual y Recursos Civiles Legales

¿Qué es la Agresión Sexual? La agresión sexual puede suceder de diferentes maneras. En esencia, la agresión sexual es un...

Consumers and Bail Bonds

Most people spend very little time thinking about bail bondsmen —up until the moment a loved one lands in jail. When a...

Is Your Social Security Safe from Debt Collectors?

Is Your Social Security Safe from Debt Collectors? With several important exceptions, your social security check is safe or...

LIHEAP Rules Require Social Security Numbers and Protect Deployed Servicemembers

Community Action Programs continue to help low-income Iowans pay home heating bills with "LIHEAP" or Low-Income Home Energy...

How Do I Fill Out My W-4?

When you start working you will need to fill out a form to set the amount of taxes that will be taken out of your check...

Children Have A Right To Education

All children, regardless of citizenship status, have the right to attend a public school without cost. The U.S. Supreme...

Servicios Públicos: Preocupación Medica

" Cortaron mi servicio eléctrico o de gas natural o lo cortaran pronto. Puedo pedir a la compañía que no los corte o que...

Su Salud en Los Campos

Los Pesticidas  Los trabajadores del campo y sus familias pueden estar en contacto frecuente con exposición a los...

¿Qué es la discriminación de vivienda?

¿Qué es causa ilícita para el propietario? Bajo la ley de Iowa y la ley federal, un propietario o director de apartamento...

Actualizar su presentación de impuestos no tiene que ser difícil

Me atrasé en la presentación de mis declaraciones de impuestos y deseo ponerme al día. ¿Cómo lo hago? El IRS tiene...

Labor Trafficking in Agriculture

What is labor trafficking?  The federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act defines labor trafficking as the...

Reemplazo de documentos perdidos

Un desastre usualmente ocurre sin previo aviso.  La pérdida de documentos importantes es posible durante un...

Preparativos de Arreglos de Funeral – Pros y Contras

Hay muchas ventajas al planear y pagar por su funeral por adelantado. Preparativos de arreglos de funeral necesitados le...

Divorce Questions and Answers

What should I know about divorce in Iowa? How long must I live in Iowa before I can file for a divorce? Should I separate...

Avoid Housing Schemes

If a Real Estate Deal Sounds Too Good To Be True, It Might Be Housing is expensive. Many Iowans struggle each month to come...

Illegal Debt Collection Conduct

The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, known at the "FDCPA," requires collection agencies to take certain actions:...

Declaraciones de Desastre – Estatales y Federales

El clima extremo ocurre cada año en Iowa. Las declaraciones de desastre están hechas para todo, desde ventiscas y tormentas...

Grandparent Visitation in Iowa

In Iowa, a grandparent or great-grandparent can ask a court to grant visitation with their grandchildren or...

¿Cómo puedo obtener una orden civil de protección?

¿Qué es una orden civil de protección? Una orden civil de protección es una orden judicial que le exige a un abusador que...

The Family and Medical Leave Act

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid,...

Problemas comunes para cumplir con los requisitos de los beneficios por desempleo

La pérdida repentina de un trabajo puede ser devastadora. Los ingresos del trabajo se han ido, pero todavía hay que pagar...

What Happens When People Getting Social Security Disability Benefits Have Earned Income

Can I work while receiving Social Security Disability and SSI benefits from Social Security? Not everyone who gets...

Unemployment Benefits

If you lose your job, you may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits.  To be eligible for unemployment benefits...

Seguro Social (Social Security)

¿Qué sucede si no recibí mis últimos beneficios de Seguro Social o Ingreso de Seguridad Suplemental (Suplemental Security...

Misconceptions About Common Law Marriage

Being married gives people certain legal rights. Many of these legal rights don't become important until the couple splits...

Getting the Health Care Services You Need

Has your insurance company, Medicare or Medicaid denied you help? You don't have to take no for an answer. How can I fight...

Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Programs

Many Iowans need assistance to meet their health care needs. Sometimes that care must be provided by residential care...

Renter’s Insurance

Are you protected if a disaster hits your rental home?  Where will you go if repairs need to be made to your apartment...

Rental Deposits

What Is a Rental Deposit? When a house or apartment is rented, a landlord usually collects in advance a rental deposit,...

Avoiding Ripoffs From Contractors and Insurance

What if someone says he is from the Insurance Division or my insurance company and offers to speed up my claim if I pay him...

Questions and Answers for Tenants About Bedbugs

Once thought to be largely eliminated in the United States, bedbugs have again become a problem for tenants, homeowners,...

How Immigration Laws Impact Immigrant Victims of Domestic Violence

Alicia came to Iowa in 1982. She is married to a legal permanent resident. Her spouse said she must have thirteen children...

El privilegio médico-paciente en los procesos civiles

“Todo consejero, médico… [o] profesional de la salud mental… que obtenga información sobre una persona en el ejercicio de...

Como las Leyes de Inmigración afectan a víctimas inmigrantes de la violencia doméstica

Alicia vino a Iowa en 1982. Ella está casada a un residente legal permanente. Su marido le dijo que ella tenía que tener...

¿Qué Son las Políticas de la Escuela de su Hijo?

La mayoría de los padres ayudan a sus hijos a prepararse para la escuela al conseguir sus artículos escolares y la ropa de...

Common Issues in Qualifying for Unemployment Benefits:

The sudden loss of a job can be devastating. The income of the job is gone but bills still must be paid. Unemployment...

Programa de exención para mantener a personas mayores fuera de las residencias de ancianos

¿Qué es el programa de exención para personas mayores? Iowa tiene un programa de Medicaid para ayudar a la gente que...

Do You Have a Junk Mail Problem?

Getting Off Mailing Lists To receive less commercial advertising mail, you can register for The Direct Marketing...

I Owe the IRS Money. Now What?

Suppose the IRS sent you a letter a couple of years back indicating that you owed money to the IRS. At the time, you didn't...

Attorney Profile: Get to Know Josh Gaul

Get to know Josh Gaul, Managing Attorney of Iowa Legal Aid’s Disaster Project and Rural Justice Project for Older Iowans....

¿Cómo consigo que mi propietario haga reparaciones?

La mayoría de la gente sabe que si usted es un inquilino y no paga la renta, el propietario puede desalojarle. Pero, ¿qué...

Trata Laboral en la Agricultura

¿Qué es la trata laboral?  La Ley federal de Protección a las Víctimas de la Trata define la trata laboral como el...

Caring for Our Minor Children After We’re Gone

Background Iowa Legal Aid staff answer a lot of questions from clients about what will happen to their minor child after...

Resolving Family Law Problems Through Mediation

Many Iowans' only contact with the court system is when a family law problem arises. There may be a divorce or custody...

How Social Media Can Be Used Against People in Family Law Cases

Some of the most popular places on the Internet are social media sites. It is easy for people to create their own pages and...

Mi único ingreso es el Seguro Social. ¿Tengo que pagar impuestos sobre mis beneficios?

Eso depende. El Servicio de Impuestos Internos (IRS, por sus siglas en inglés) revisa sus ingresos totales para determinar...

Programa de Subvención del Estado de Iowa para Individuos en Caso de un Desastre Natural

Después de un desastre natural, el gobernador de Iowa puede emitir una declaración de desastre estatal en un condado o en...

Disaster Struck My Rental Property, Now What?

In a disaster, time can seem to move both too slowly for some things and too fast for others.  If you have been...

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage for People Who Get Medicaid

Medicare provides prescription drug coverage for people who are eligible for Medicare. This includes people who are...

Inheritances and SSI

Background People who get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) know they need to report changes in income and resources to...

Ejecuciones hipotecarias  y rescisiones de contratos de propiedad

Por lo general, las personas no pueden pagar el precio en efectivo al comprar una vivienda. Como resultado, la mayoría de...

Violencia Doméstica y Los Inmigrantes

¿Qué es “violencia doméstica”?  La violencia doméstica es un tipo de abuso en que una persona utiliza varios métodos o...

Home Insurance Issues

How can I make sure I get my insurance company to pay? You first have to make a claim. You may have claims under...

Facing Foreclosure? Tips to Help Restructure Debt and Deal with Mortgage Companies

When the foreclosure process starts or is just around the corner, homeowners must decide whether to stay in the home or...

Courts and Agencies Must Provide Interpreters for People Who do not Speak English

Many law suits are filed every day. People involved in a lawsuit may feel worried or afraid about what will happen. The...

Protecting Your 401(K) Plan

Question:  I'm a 20-year employee of a company that has a 401(k) plan. I've been told I am fully vested and am thinking...

Prioritize Your Insurance Needs

Insurance helps protect you from loss when things go wrong. For example, if a tree fell on your car and you couldn’t drive...

Iowa’s Health Insurance Marketplace

What is Iowa’s Health Insurance Marketplace? Iowa’s Health Insurance Marketplace was created by the Affordable Care Act as...

Legal Separation – Separating Before Divorce

Why should I consider a separation from my spouse before I file for a divorce? A separation could provide insight into how...

What is “Notice” in a Court Case and How Is It Done?

When you file a case in court, you have to give the other person(s) notice. Here is some information on what notice is and...

Iowa’s County Veterans Relief Program

If you are a veteran, you might be able to get financial help from the county in which you live. Each county must have a...

Denying Housing to Survivors of Domestic Violence May Violate Fair Housing Laws

It is hard enough for anyone to find decent, affordable housing. Finding housing may be even harder for women who are...

Can They Repossess My Car?

Sometimes a car buyer cannot make payments. He or she stops paying the amount the contract requires. The borrower (person...

The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act

The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) is an Iowa law. It says which state's courts can make...

2023 Iowa Legal Aid Impact by County

Hope. Dignity. Justice. They’re not just words, but values that Iowa Legal Aid embraces each and every day as we work to...

What Public Benefits are Available to Workers on Strike

When a person participates in a strike at work, it may affect their eligibility for certain public benefits....

Iowa Legal Aid Helps Resolve Roof and Insurance Dispute After Derecho

[et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_text] Iowa Legal Aid assisted “Michael,” an Iowa homeowner whose roof was severely damaged...

La Ley de Normas Justas de Trabajo (FLSA) ayuda a los trabajadores agrícolas y otros trabajadores obtener su salario justo

La Ley de Normas Justas de Trabajo (FLSA, por sus siglas en inglés) es una ley federal que establece normas para sueldo...

El Proceso de Apelación de FEMA

¿Quépasa si no estoy de acuerdo con la cantidad de dinero que el FEMA me va a dar? Después de presentar su solicitud de...

¿Qué es una “notificación” en un caso judicial y cómo se hace?

Cuando usted presenta un caso ante la corte, usted debe notificar a las otras personas involucradas. Aquí tiene usted...

What Is Discrimination in Housing?

(Section 216.8 & 8A, and 216.12, Code of Iowa) (United States Code, Volume 42, Sections 3601 and following.) What Is it...

Car Titles

Motor vehicle certificates of title are very important documents that should be treated like a deed to real estate. Titles...

Questions and Answers About Adoption

What do I need to do to put my baby up for adoption? The mother will need to use an adoption agency or attorney in order to...

Donor Spotlight: Wells Fargo Foundation

Wells Fargo Donation Prevents 11,000+ Evictions in Six Iowa Counties Since receiving catalytic grant funding from the Wells...

The Fair Labor Standards Act Helps Farmworks & Other Workers Get Their Fair Pay

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law that sets standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, and other...

Refinanciación

Muchas personas intentan a manejar deuda a través de la refinanciación de préstamos. Refinanciar significa pagar una deuda...

Rent Reimbursement and Property Tax Credits

Rent Reimbursement and Property Tax Credits for Iowans who are Elderly or Have a Disability Each year, Iowans who are...

Custody Questions and Answers

Who has custody when a child is born to an unmarried mother? How is paternity of a child established? What does it mean to...

¿Me pueden embargar el auto?

Lea esto en:English

Encontrar vivienda cuando se tienen antecedentes penales

Un pasado caso penal puede dificultar el encontrar vivienda. Muchos propietarios no quieren alquilar a alguien que tenga...

Guardianship and Conservatorship: Your Rights as a Protected Person

Guardianship If you have a guardianship, you still have rights. You and your guardian may not always agree.  A...

My only income is Social Security. Do I have to pay any taxes on my benefits?

It depends. The IRS looks at your total income to determine if your Social Security benefits are taxable. It also depends...

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders

People often worry about being revived when they are terminally ill and dying. Being revived can be painful and unwanted....

How Can I Use My FEMA Money?

A disaster damaged your home.  You applied for FEMA help.  FEMA will meet with you and inspect your home. ...

Criminal No Contact Orders and Civil Protection Orders

A lot of what we know about the law we learn from television.  We know that the police arrest people and charge them...

How to Hire a Good Contractor

A good contractor is the key to a good home repair project.  In planning for the project, follow these steps to hire a...

Don’t Let a Legal Question Turn Into a Legal Problem

Nip it in the Bud! Legal questions ignored can turn a small problem into a big problem. If you put your head in the sand...

Beneficios de Desempleo

Si pierde su trabajo, usted pudiera calificar por beneficios de desempleo.  Para ser elegible por beneficios de...

Iowa Individual Disaster Assistance Grant Program

After a disaster happens, the Iowa governor can issue a state disaster declaration for a county or group of counties. ...

Privacy Policy

Iowa Legal Aid Internet Privacy Policy Your privacy is important to us. Our Privacy Policy describes how we collect and use...

Iowa Legal Aid Pilots New Approach to Prevent Homelessness

Iowa Legal Aid was recently selected by the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) as a winner of its second annual Innovation in...

Finding a Nursing Home

No one wants to go to a nursing home if they can live safely in their own home.  However, if you require health...

Protecting Yourself from Telephone Marketing Fraud

Telemarketers often use illegal and deceptive practices such as contests, free prizes, sweepstakes, fake charities and...

Business Contract and Commercial Lease Issues

What should I do if I can’t pay my commercial lease for my business? Commercial or business tenants do not enjoy the same...

Passports and Child Custody

Do I need custody to get my child a passport? There are special rules to get a passport for a child who is younger than 16....

Common Myths About Family Law

At Iowa Legal Aid, we talk to new clients daily. While each person’s situation is unique, we hear many of the same concerns...

Lost Pension Plans

Question:   I worked for ABC Company for about 15 years from 1995 to 2010. It had a pension plan and when I left they told...

Mechanic’s Lien

What is a mechanic's lien? If you make an agreement with someone to do work on your property, that person is a “general...

Legal Rights of Agricultural Workers

Legal protections for migrant and seasonal workers:   The Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act...

For-Profit Colleges: A Closer Look at Technical Schools and Employability

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office looked at for-profit schools.  For-profit...

FEMA Recoupment

What is FEMA Recoupment? After a disaster happens, FEMA tries to give people help as soon as they can. They often do this...

How Can I Get a Civil Protection Order?

What is a Civil Protection Order? A civil protection order is a court order that tells an abuser to stay away from a victim...

Procedimentos de Queja

Descargar Complaint Procedures Spanish - 2025Download

Beware of Bad Tax Advice and Unreliable Return Preparation

We have all heard the saying that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Well, this saying certainly can apply...

Issues in Running Your Small Business

The easiest to overlook issues sometimes cause the biggest headaches.  If any of the following scenarios seem familiar...

Homestead Exemption for 65 and older

In addition to the homestead tax credit, eligible claimants who own the home they live in and are 65 years of age or older...

Affidavits

What is an affidavit? Affidavits are written statements that are sworn under oath. Sometimes affidavits are signed in front...

Having a Voice and Making a Choice in Where Your Child Goes to School

Children are entitled to a free public education in the school district where they live.  In Iowa, a parent can...

Catching up on Filing Taxes Doesn’t Have to Be Hard …(It can even be rewarding!)

I got behind on filing my tax returns and I want to catch up. How do I do it? The IRS has tax forms and...

What Can I Do When I Owe Taxes, Court Debt or Other Debts to the State of Iowa?

You cannot register your car. Your operator, hunting, or professional license has been suspended. The state is garnishing...

Asuntos de Seguro

¿Cómo puedo asegurar que mi compañía de seguro pagará? Primero tiene que hacer una reclamación. Usted puede tener...

Safe at Home Program

Survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other violent crimes are able to sign up for a program to help keep them...

What to Do if You Get a Notice About Your Public Housing

Do you live in public housing? If so, you need to understand the rights and responsibilities that go along with it. This...

My Spouse Lied to the IRS and I Got the Bill!

What might happen? You got your mail today. There is a letter from the IRS. It isn't tax refund time so it can't be...

Finding Housing with a Criminal Record

A past criminal case can make it hard to find housing. Many landlords will not rent to someone with a criminal record....

Pension Rights: Mergers and Acquisitions

Question:  I work for a company with a defined benefit pension plan that just announced it would merge into...

Changing Your Name in Iowa

If you would like to legally change your or your child’s name, there are certain steps you must take.  These steps...

Shopping for Credit

To many people, the holidays are a time for giving. That often means buying; and when money is short, people consider...

Asistencia de Emergencia para los Trabajadores del Campo

Si usted o sus familiares necesiten asistencia urgente, las siguientes organizaciones les pueden ayudar:   EL DEPARTAMENTO...

Cómo hacer cambios al acta de nacimiento de su hijo en Iowa

Esta información es para alguien que nació en Iowa. Mi nombre o el nombre de mi bebé está escrito incorrectamente en el...

Your Health in the Fields

Pesticides  Farmworkers and their families may be in frequent contact with pesticides. If you come into contact with...

Foreclosure and Forfeiture Questions and Answers

I am worried that we might lose our house. We’re having trouble making payments. What can happen?

Disaster Documents Checklist

DO NOT RISK YOUR LIFE TO COLLECT THESE ITEMS AT THE LAST MINUTE. Gather them in advance in case you must leave your...

Debtor’s Exams

If you owe money under a court judgment, you may be ordered to go to the court for a debtor's exam. Do not ignore this...

Tenants: Protect Yourself in Rental Agreements

When clients come into our office due to a landlord-tenant dispute, one of the first questions we ask them is what kind of...

Domestic Abuse Questions and Answers

What is Domestic Abuse? Domestic abuse is an assault between people in certain types of relationships. What is considered...

Gifts and Qualifying for Medicaid for Nursing Home Care

If you or your spouse give away money or property to anyone for less than fair market value, you may not be eligible for...

Avoiding Pitfalls of Tax Time

During tax season you will hear many businesses offering to help you file your return. The question is, "Do I really want a...

Tipos de notificaciones de propietarios

Los propietarios casi siempre tienen que entregar una notificación por escrito al inquilino antes de presentar un caso de...

What Are The Policies at Your Child’s School?

Most parents help their children get ready for school by getting their school supplies and gym clothes ready each fall. A...

Sexual Assault and Civil Legal Remedies

What is sexual assault? Sexual assault can happen in many different ways. At its core, sexual assault is a sex act done by...

Bankruptcy Issues After A Disaster

I lost everything because of a natural disaster. Will it help me to file bankruptcy? It depends on your situation....

The Basic Rules of Credit Cards

Credit cards are a source of credit, not a source of income.  Using a credit card when you don't have enough...

Fact-Finding Hearings and Appeals for Unemployment Benefits

*NOTE: This article discusses the process for traditional unemployment benefits.  There are additional federal...

Iowa State Bar Foundation Awards Housing Grant

A grant from the Iowa State Bar Foundation will help Iowa Legal Aid continue its statewide housing stability project,...

Repossession: The Rules a Creditor Must Follow to Take Your Personal Property

A "creditor" is someone you owe money.  Sometimes a creditor can "repossess" your personal property if you do not pay...

The Criminal Process in Domestic Abuse Cases

Any victim of a crime can file a criminal complaint against their assailant by contacting the police and making the...

Payday Loans – a Convenience You Can’t Afford!

Many Iowans, including elderly Iowans, are relying on "Payday" loans to help make ends meet. (Sometimes these loans are...

Breaking the Cycle

Tammy first connected with Iowa Legal Aid through the Community Schools Project for help with employment.

Programs and Services of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

What kind of benefits does FEMA provide? FEMA's main program for people suffering damage or displacement from a disaster is...

Wage Payment Collection

Are you having problems collecting wages owed to you or problems not being paid regularly? There is a law in Iowa to help...

Debts “Written Off” May Count as Taxable Income

Many people do not know that having a debt "written off" or forgiven may count as taxable income. When income is taxable,...

Private Rooms and Nursing Home Residents on Title 19

Many elderly Iowans enter nursing homes after living privately in their own homes or apartments. When entering a nursing...

Small Claims Informational Booklet

Download our booklet on small claims court: small-claims-booklet-(electronic)Download

My Refund Was Taken – What Can I Do?

Tax Refunds can be taken by both the state of Iowa Department of Revenue and by the Internal Revenue Service. Your refund...

Veterans’ Issues Fact Sheet: VA Compensation

Are you a Veteran with a disability or other health problem related to your service? You may be eligible for VA...

Denegar vivienda a los sobrevivientes de la violencia doméstica puede ser una violación de las Leyes

Todo el mundo encuentra difícil encontrar una vivienda decente y económica. Es posible que mujeres que son sobrevivientes...

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is a federal statute passed by Congress to allow military members to suspend or...

Can I Expunge My Adult Criminal Conviction in Iowa?

The State of Iowa’s policy is to keep most criminal records public.  The criminal court docket is online for anyone to...

Wills and Probate Questions & Answers

What happens to my property at my death? When people living in Iowa die, their property is transferred to other people in...

Régimen de visitas de los abuelos en Iowa

En Iowa, los abuelos o bisabuelos pueden solicitar ante un tribunal que se les conceda un régimen de visitas con sus nietos...

Direct Express Cards

Most people now get their monthly Social Security benefits on a debit card or through direct deposit instead of a check in...

Eviction Diversion Help Desks

Iowa Legal Aid currently operates six Eviction Help Desks throughout the state (see list below). These help desks are all...

Get Your FREE Credit Report

www.annualcreditreport.com Fight identity theft by monitoring and reviewing your credit report. You may request your free...

Adult Guardianship and the Right to Communicate

Adults Under Guardianships Have Rights Too A person under a guardianship is called the protected person. The person who...

Inmigrantes y Cupones para Alimentos

Asistencia Alimentaria e Inmigrantes El Programa de Asistencia Alimentaria ayuda a prevenir el hambre en los Estados...

Are Your Legal Affairs in Order?

Background There are several reasons why Iowans, and especially elderly Iowans, should periodically review their legal...

Social Security after a Disaster

What if I did not get my latest Social Security or SSI benefits? If you live in a disaster area, ask your local post office...

Paying for Utilities

Utility bills can strain the budgets of many Iowans. This is especially true for Iowans who are elderly or have a...

You Have Rights When Your Work Ends!

Has this happened to you?  You live in a house, trailer, or migrant labor camp and you are fired or let go from your work....

Las leyes de vivienda justa protegen a los inmigrantes

Imagínese que usted y su familia buscan apartamentos. Usted ve un anuncio que le parece prometedor. Está en un sitio ideal...

Automatic Payments from Your Bank Account: Know Your Rights

It is becoming more and more common to use recurring automatic electronic payments to pay bills.  “Recurring automatic...

El Ausentismo Escolar

Los niños pueden faltar a la escuela por muchas razones. Es posible que los niños estén enfermos, tengan miedo de sufrir...

Financiamiento de un carro usado

Cuando usted está buscando un nuevo carro usado, existen varios lugares donde lo puede comprar. Los concesionarios...

Cobertura de medicamentos recetados provista por Medicare para la gente que califica por Medicaid

Medicare provee cobertura de medicamentos recetados para personas elegibles para recibir los beneficios de Medicare. Esto...

What to Consider Before Signing a Commercial Lease

Making Your Lease the Least of Your Problems You've finally found it, the perfect place to set up shop and open your...

Colección del Pago del Sueldo

¿ Usted tiene problemas coleccionando el sueldo debido o problemas de no ser pagado regularmente? Hay una ley en el estado...

Los Derechos de los Trabajadores “H-2A”

El programa federal H-2A permite que los patrones agrícolas estadounidenses emplean a trabajadores de otros países con un...

Selling Your Car

Iowa Department of Transportation - Buying and Selling a Vehicle: www.iowadot.gov  Information You Need If You Sell Your...

Payroll Cards

How are you paid? Most workers get paid by check or by direct deposit. Some specialized workers, such as waiters, may get...

Obteniendo Asistencia Médica

¿Dónde puedo obtener ayuda para pagar la atención médica en Iowa? Muchas personas necesitan ayuda para pagar la atención...

60 Month Lifetime Limit on FIP Benefits

The Family Investment Program (FIP) is what Iowa calls its Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or welfare...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre custodia

¿Quién tiene la custodia cuando nace un hijo de una madre soltera? •    La madre suele tener la custodia de su hijo si no...

Protecting Elderly Iowans from Abuse

Elder Abuse - What It Is and What to Do About It There is a law protecting elderly Iowans against abuse. The law...

Help With Pension Problems

Iowa Legal Aid can help Iowans who are entitled to receive pensions based on their work history or the work history of...

Public Benefits and Car Ownership

Iowans can have one dependable car and still get welfare benefits, food assistance and Medicaid benefits. Welfare (FIP) and...

Iowa Legal Aid Attorney Teaches Poverty Law Practicum

Earlier this year, Iowa Legal Aid Managing Attorney Ericka Petersen taught a Poverty Law Practicum at the University of...

¿Cómo evitar problemas a la hora de pagar impuestos?

Durante la temporada de impuestos, usted oirá que muchas compañías le ofrecen ayuda para presentar los impuestos. La...

Getting Medical Assistance

Where can I get help paying for health care in Iowa? Many people need help paying for health care. Iowa has several...

Don’t Make Things Difficult For Those You Love–Plan Ahead

The Importance of Legal Planning It is important to plan ahead for your family and loved ones to help in illness or to deal...

Iowa Legal Aid Helps Sioux City Resident Keep Critical Disability Benefits

Iowa Legal Aid represented “Ryan,” a man with a serious mental illness who has received social security income (SSI) since...

Determining if Guardianship or Conservatorship is Necessary

Is a guardianship or conservatorship needed?   Family members often take on informal decision-making roles for a...

Protegiendo a los ancianos de Iowa del abuso

El abuso de ancianos: qué es y qué se debe hacer Existe una ley que protege a los ancianos de Iowa del abuso. La ley amplía...

Accommodations for Veterans With Disabilities

Hundreds of thousands of people in our country have served in the global war on terrorism. Hundreds of thousands more still...

Paternity Questions and Answers

How do I become the legal father or establish my "paternity" of a child? The term for becoming the legal father of a child...

It is Illegal for Someone to Force you to Work or Have Sex

 - Has anyone ever made you work when you couldn’t or charged you a fee for finding a job?   - Has your supervisor ever...

¿Puedo expurgar mi condena penal de adulto en Iowa?

Adultos y Antecedentes Penales - No Muchos Pueden Eliminar Una Condena Penal de Iowa Eliminación de Antecedentes Penales de...

Orden de custodia para padres con casos CINA abiertos

Los padres involucrados en casos abiertos de Menor con Necesidad de Asistencia (CINA, por sus siglas en inglés) tienen una...

Soy un trabajador de H-2A. ¿Debe mi empleador retener impuestos de mi pago?

Soy un trabajador con visa H-2A. ¿Debería mi empleador retener impuestos de mi sueldo? En los Estados Unidos Hay un dicho...

How to Make Changes to Your Child’s Iowa Birth Certificate

This information is for someone who was born in Iowa. My name or my baby's name is spelled wrong on the Iowa birth...

New Des Moines Location Effective November 7, 2022

Iowa Legal Aid's New Des Moines Address & Driving Directions: Iowa Legal Aid 666 Walnut Street25th FloorDes Moines, IA...

Divorcio – Preguntas y Respuestas

¿Qué debería saber yo sobre el divorcio en Iowa? •    No es difícil obtener un divorcio, pero sí toma...

Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

You have the right to be free from sexual harassment in the workplace. Sexual harassment in the workplace is a form of sex...

Tax refunds for 2022 are going, going, almost gone…

"Don't lose your refund! Tax refunds for 2022 are going, going, almost gone..." Tax time is almost here! If you have not...

Audiencias para determinar los hechos y apelaciones para beneficios por desempleo

*NOTA: Este artículo discute el proceso de los beneficios por desempleo tradicionales. Hay beneficios federales adicionales...

Farmworkers’ Rights

Farmworkers have many important legal rights. The following is a summary of some of the important rights and...

Educación y las Escuelas

Muchas personas de edad escolar han sido desplazadas por las inundaciones de 2008. Estas personas tienen todos los derechos...

Protecting What Matters Most

Molly faced a challenge common to many seniors: her husband’s health was failing, and he needed long-term care.

Veterans’ Issues Fact Sheet: Overpayments

You got a letter from the VA saying you were overpaid. You cannot afford to pay the money back. In fact, you are barely...

Human Trafficking: Modern Day Slavery

There is a form of slavery happening throughout the country called human trafficking.  Human trafficking is when a...

What do I do if I didn’t get my W-2 or the W-2 I got has errors?

Employers are supposed to issue W-2’s to their employees by January 31st after the end of the calendar year. What if I...

Perdí mi casa y ¿ahora debo impuestos por ella?

Ejecutaron la hipoteca de mi casa. Acabo de recibir un informe bancario que dice que debo declarar mis ingresos debido a la...

Big Grove Brewery unveils fundraising beer for Iowa Legal Aid

Read the full article from The Daily Iowan below.

Life After a Juvenile Record

Juvenile Record Causing Problems? How "Sealing" Can Help, gives an overview of juvenile records and what steps a...

Protecting Your Defined Benefit Plan

Question:  I'm a 20 year employee of a company that has a defined benefit plan. I've been told I am fully vested and...

Tax Reduction for Low Income Iowans Owning Mobile Homes

There is no disability or elderly requirement for this benefit.  Iowans over 23 years of age at the end of 2025 with...

Which State Can Make Decisions about Guardianships and Conservatorships?

Iowa has the power to appoint a guardian or conservator if Iowa is the "home state" of the respondent to a guardianship or...

Can the School Make Me Get a Guardianship in Order to Enroll Children I Am Taking Care Of?

Sometimes, parents are unable to take care of their kids. The parents may have died, or be ill or absent. When parents...

2025 Iowa Legal Aid Impact

Each and every year, Iowa Legal Aid helps low-income individuals and families access legal representation, advice, and...

Inquilinos: protéjanse en los acuerdos de alquiler

Cuando clientes vienen a nuestra oficina con una disputa con sus caseros, una de las primeras preguntas que hacemos qué...

Disaster Resources

General Disaster Assistance: Disaster Self-Help Toolkit by Iowa Legal Aid. English version. Spanish version. The...

FEMA Application and Assistance Overview

A Guide to FEMA Assistance FEMA can assist with temporary housing, repair or replacement costs, and other disaster needs...

La Ley para la Protección de los Trabajadores Agrícolas Migratorios y Estacionales (AWPA, por sus siglas en inglés)

¿Qué es La Ley para la Protección de los Trabajadores Agrícolas Migratorios y Estacionales (AWPA)? La Ley para la...

Conducta Ilegal en la Recaudación de Deudas

La Acta de Recaudación Justa de Deudas y Practicas de Colección (Fair Debt Collection Practices Act), una ley federal...

El Ausentismo Escolar

Los niños pueden faltar a la escuela por muchas razones. Es posible que los niños estén enfermos, tengan miedo de sufrir...

Should You Take Your Pension In A Lump Sum?

Some companies may offer to cash out the pensions of certain retirees and instead give them one lump-sum payment. ...

Iowa Legal Aid’s Justice Bus Hits the Road to Help Disaster Survivors & Rural Areas

Iowa Legal Aid recently launched its new Justice Bus, a mobile law office bringing free legal services to rural and...

Water Service Shutoffs

Water service is an essential service like electricity and gas. These essential services are called "utilities." There are...

Cómo Modificar una Orden de Custodia

Bob y Betty tienen dos hijos: Charlie y Claire. Betty tiene la custodia de los hijos y Bob puede visitarlos cada dos fines...

A Path to Safety for Natasha and Her Five Children

Iowa Legal Aid represented Natasha, a domestic abuse survivor, and her five children through our Waterloo Regional Office...

Licensing Your Vehicle

If you buy a used vehicle from a licensed auto dealer, the dealer will take care of licensing and registration of the...

Review Your Medicare Part D Prescription

Many people who are enrolled in Medicare have the costs of their prescription drugs partially covered by a Medicare Part D...

Ley de Propietarios e Inquilinos Cuestiones y Respuestas

¿Están todos los alquileres de casas cubiertos por la misma ley de Iowa? No. La mayoría de alquileres normales están...

Disaster Mental Health Services

Mental Health Resources for Those Affected by Disasters Disasters occur often and generally without notice.  In the...

Miller Trusts: Helping Pay for Nursing Home Care

Many people worry about how they will pay for nursing home care if it becomes necessary.  The Iowa Department of...

Credit Card Lawsuits

I have been sued for a credit card debt. What do I need to do? When you are served with a lawsuit, you will have 20 days...

Just Say “No” to Unwanted Door-to-Door Sales

Telemarketer's are having a tougher time making sales these days. More people use Caller ID and other ways to avoid sales...

I Won My Social Security Disability Case – Now What?

Anyone who has gone through the Social Security disability process knows how hard it is to win disability and SSI...

Benefits for Seniors

BenefitsCheckUp is a tool that will tell you if you can get federal, state and some local private and public benefits for...

Iowa Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-770-1650

The Iowa Domestic Violence Hotline originates from the Iowa Victim Services Call Center. Their website...

How to Recognize Employment Discrimination

In Iowa, most workers are "at the will" of the boss. This means the boss can fire workers at any time. The only time a...

Juvenile Record Causing Problems? How “Sealing” Can Help

How do you get a juvenile record? You may have a juvenile record if you were accused of doing something illegal when you...

The Rights of H-2A Workers

The federal H-2A visa program allows agricultural employers in the United States to hire workers from other countries with...

Individual Education Plans

Children with disabilities have rights under federal and Iowa laws.  The main law is the Individuals with Disabilities...

Education and Schools After A Disaster

Many school-age children are displaced by disasters. They have all the rights federal law gives to children who have lost...

Mobile Homes in Iowa

This resource concerns the purchase of a mobile home and the rental of lot space for a mobile home. If the mobile home...

Repayment of Medicaid under Iowa’s Estate Recovery Law

General:  Iowa’s Estate Recovery law requires the State of Iowa to be reimbursed from the estate of a person who has...

Emeritus Attorney Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in becoming an emeritus attorney with Iowa Legal Aid.  Your help in providing legal...

Órdenes penales de alejamiento y órdenes civiles de protección

Mucho de lo que aprendemos de la ley es de la televisión. Sabemos que la policía arresta a personas y les ponen cargos...

¡Todavía puede reclamar sus pagos de estímulo!

Primer y segundo cheque de estímulo Si no recibió ninguno de los dos primeros pagos de estímulo ($1200 por adulto/$500 por...

Payment Options for Nursing Home Care

Nursing home care can be paid for through Medicare (although very limited), private pay, long-term care insurance or...

Su Salud en el Lugar de Trabajo

Compensación por incapacidad de trabajo (indemnización por trabajadores que resultan lastimados en el lugar de trabajo) le...

Property Tax Suspension for People Who Get SSI

Many people with a disability own or are buying their homes. They may have a hard time paying their property taxes which...

Fraude de Paternidad

Una decisión de la Corte Suprema de Iowa dice que un hombre podría traer una demanda en la siguiente situación: La madre de...

Limited Representation (Unbundled Legal Services)

What is limited representation? Sometimes called: Limited scope representation Unbundled service Discreet legal...

Predatory Lending – Don’t Be a Victim

Iowans should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of a "Predatory Lender." Predatory lenders take advantage of...

Emancipación y tutelas de menoes

A los hijos no se les permite que tomen sus propias decisiones. En lugar de eso, dependen de sus padres para ayudarles a...

Odometer Fraud

Making sure the odometer is correct is an important part of getting the facts about a car before you buy it. Odometer...

Identity Theft

What is Identity Theft? Identity theft is when someone uses your name, Social Security number, date of birth, credit card...

Need Help With Medicare Expenses? Check Out the QMB and SLMB Programs

The State of Iowa offers the QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) and SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary)...

¿Cómo puedo llenar mi W-4?

Cuando empieza a trabajar usted necesitará llenar un formulario para determinar la cantidad de impuestos que va a estar...

Familias con personas divorciadas, nunca casadas y no tradicionales y créditos tributarios

Una parte importante de calcular los impuestos es determinar a quién puede reclamar como dependiente y qué créditos están...

Contratos de Vivienda y Terreno

Todos trabajadores tienen el derecho a una vivienda digna, higiénica y segura. Hay leyes estatales y federales que protegen...

Did You Pay For Divorce Forms?

Iowa has free self help forms for a divorce with or without minor children and for custody cases. You can find the forms on...

Telephone Slamming

Telephone slamming occurs when a telephone company changes your telephone service without your consent. Slamming is...

Landlord Notices of Clear and Present Danger-Protections for Victims of Domestic or Sex Abuse

Special Protections for Victims of Domestic and/or Sex Abuse For a survivor of domestic abuse, getting a protective order...

Doctor-Patient Privilege In Civil Court Cases

"A practicing. . . counselor, physician,. . .[or] mental health profaessional, . . . who obtains information by reason of...

Préstamos del Día de Pago – ¡Una Conveniencia que no Puede Pagar!

Muchas personas de Iowa, incluyendo a personas de la tercera edad, están esperando por los préstamos del "Día de Pago" para...

Getting Emergency Medical Care

When must a hospital treat me? Hospitals must treat you - even if you don't have insurance - when you have an emergency...

Servicios de salud mental en caso de desastre natural

Con frecuencia los desastres naturales pueden ocurrir sin previo aviso.  De un momento para otro, un individuo puede...

Derechos en el Empleo

Iowa Legal Aid desea que usted reciba todos los beneficios de su trabajo. Por favor comuníquese con nosotros si cree que su...

Consumer Title Loans

Before the Iowa Legislature changed the law in 2007, car title loans were a very expensive way to borrow money. Now the law...

Acoso Sexual en El Trabajo

Usted tiene derecho a no sufrir acoso sexual en el trabajo. El acoso sexual en el trabajo es una forma de discriminación...

Dealing With Medical Debt

Illness and injury can cause stress in our lives. When illness and injury lead to medical bills not covered by health...

Iowa’s Domestic Violence Firearm Law

Federal law prohibits firearm possession by those convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor and those subject to a...

Juvenile Court Questions and Answers

Juvenile Courts generally handle cases dealing with children under the age of eighteen. What Kinds of Cases Does the...

Domestic Violence and Immigrants

What is domestic violence? Domestic violence is a pattern of abuse in which one individual uses tactics to control...

What Is a Living Will?

A living will is a written document authorizing health care providers to withhold or withdraw life sustaining procedures in...

Deudas “canceladas” pueden contar como ingreso imponible

Muchas personas no saben que tener una deuda "cancelada" o perdonada puede contar como ingreso imponible. Cuando un ingreso...

Razones por las que los propietarios podrían negarle a usted su solicitud de alquiler

Los propietarios podrían declinar alquilarle a usted por muchas razones diferentes. Las más comunes son: desalojos previos...

Derechos Legales de Trabajadores del Campo

Protecciones legales para los trabajadores migrantes y temporales:  La Ley para la Protección de los Trabajadores...

Transfers and Discharges from Nursing Homes

An attempt to transfer or discharge a resident from a nursing home against his or her wishes can be upsetting and...

Elderly Waiver Program Keeps People Out of Nursing Homes

What is the Elderly Waiver Program? Iowa has a Medicaid program for helping people who need extra care to stay out of...

Subsidio de Medicaid para cuidados en residencias de ancianos

Muchas personas dependen de Medicaid, también conocido como Title 19, para pagar por sus cuidados en residencias de...

Preguntas y respuestas sobre el tribunal de menores

Los Tribunales de Menores generalmente se ocupan de casos relacionados con niños menores de dieciocho años.¿Qué tipos de...

Claim All the Tax Credits You Earned: What the Earned Income Credit Can Do for You at Tax Time!

What the Earned Income Credit Can Do for You at Tax Time! How Much Can I Get? If you have qualifying children, you can get...

Iowa Legal Aid Launches Project to Combat Elder Financial Abuse

Iowa Legal Aid recently launched its new Elder Justice Innovation Project, a statewide initiative focused on identifying...

Cuidado con los malos consejos sobre impuestos, y con personas no confiables que preparan declaraciones de impuestos.

Todo el mundo conoce el refrán que si aparece tan bueno que no puede ser verdad, probablemente no es verdad. Bueno, este...

Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (AWPA)

What is the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (AWPA)? The Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker...

IRS 990 form

Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax Form 990 2023 ila-public-disclosure-990Download

Annulment

What is it? An annulment is a court order to undo a marriage that was not valid, not allowed, illegal or voidable for other...

Rural Justice Project for Older Iowans

Iowa Legal Aid is seeking potential clients (ages 60+), agency partners, and educational opportunities to inform about...

Autos Remolcados

Una persona suele tener muchas preguntas cuando sale afuera y se da cuenta de que su carro no está donde lo dejó. Este...

Preguntas y respuestas para arrendatarios sobre las chinches

Aunque se pensaba que prácticamente se habían eliminado en los EE. UU., las chinches han vuelto a convertirse en un...

Warranties

Federal law requires dealers to put a "Buyer's Guide" sticker on used cars. The Buyer's Guide tells you if there is a...

Fathers’ Rights in Unmarried Situations

Becoming a father is a great experience. With the joy of a new child, come many new duties.Parents make many decisions...

Ley de tutela de menores de Iowa

Algunas veces, ninguno de los padres puede cuidar de un hijo. Esto podría ser debido a muerte, discapacidad, o alguna otra...

Law Lets Schools Help Fight Homelessness

Each year, many children experience homelessness or near-homelessness. These children are more likely to experience hunger...

Divorced, Never Married and Non-traditional Families and Tax Credits

An important part of figuring income taxes is determining who you can claim as a dependent and what credits are available....

How to Talk to a Lawyer

Tips to get the most time out of talking to an attorney. When clients walk into our office or call us on the phone, we...

From Sleepless Nights to Peace of Mind

Dennis and Pricilla moved to western Iowa from California in 2007, buying a home before their California house sold.

The Golden Years and Debt

Major changes older people face often have a dramatic impact on their finances. Someone who is not realistic in dealing...

Assisted Living Program – Is This for Me?

Assisted living programs are found in a housing facility that also provides additional health-related care, personal care,...

Soy un “Empleador” o un “Contratista Independiente” y Por Qué Importa

Cuando eres un empleado… Su empleador debe pagar ½ de sus impuestos de Seguro Social y de Medicare. Esto equivale a 7.65%...

La Compra de Una Casa

Algunas personas que compran una casa piden préstamo  del banco u otra entidad crediticia. El vendedor cobra en su...

Adolecentes: prueba de relaciones saludables

Prueba de una relación saludable: Si contestas sí a cualquiera de estas preguntas, tu relación no es tan saludable como tú...

Replacing Lost Documents After A Disaster

A disaster often hits without warning.  Important documents can be lost during a disaster.  This can make it...

Rescisión de derechos parentales

¿Qué son los “derechos parentales”? Si usted tiene “derechos parentales” sobre un niño, usted es el padre o la madre de ese...

Getting a Temporary Restricted License (TRL)

Who Needs a TRL? Many persons need a temporary restricted license (TRL) to handle life's daily responsibilities- getting to...

Standards and Principles of Supported and Substitute Decision-Making

Supported Decision-Making Supported decision-making uses tools and supports to help persons understand, make, and...

Pasaportes y Custodia de los Hijos

¿Necesito la custodia para tramitar el pasaporte de mi hijo? Hay reglas especiales para obtener un pasaporte para un niño...

Los reembolsos de impuestos de 2020 se van, se van, ¡ya casi se fueron…!

"¡No pierda su reembolso! Los reembolsos de impuestos de 2020 se van, se van, ¡ya casi se fueron…!”  los últimos años,...

Hawki Insurance for Children

Hawki is a health insurance program for children in Iowa. It covers some children whose household income is too high for...

Teens: The Healthy Relationship Quiz

Healthy Relationship Test: If you answer yes to any of the following, your relationship is not as healthy as you deserve:...

How Can I Avoid Debt if I Am Facing Foreclosure?

Foreclosure of your home can be very stressful. You may be worried about large debt after foreclosure. There are options...

Disaster Declarations – State and Federal

Extreme weather happens every year in Iowa.   Disaster declarations are made for everything from blizzards and...

Iowa’s Minor Guardianship Law

Sometimes neither parent can take care of a child. This could be due to death, disability, or some other reason. When this...

Utilities and Medical Concerns

“My electric or gas utilities just got shut off or will be shut off.  Can I get them back or keep them on for medical...

Help With Phone Equipment for Iowans with a Hearing Disability

If you are an Iowan and have a hearing disability, you can get help with a special phone or other equipment to make it...

I Lost My House and Now I Owe Taxes?

My home was foreclosed on. I just got a statement from the bank saying I have to report income because of the foreclosure....

¿Puede la escuela obligarme a obtener una tutela para inscribir a los niños de los que estoy cuidando?

A veces, los padres no pueden hacerse cargo de sus hijos. Es posible que los padres hayan fallecido, o que estén enfermos o...