Mike’s Quick Answer
It depends on employment status and the evidence, but often a New Jersey wage-loss claim requires medical support for the inability to work plus reliable proof of what income, benefits, leave, or business opportunity was actually lost. Using PTO may still represent a loss, while self-employed claims often require more documentation than a pay stub.
Start With Medical Ability and Work Demands
The record should explain what work the person performed and why the injury prevented all or part of it. A job may require lifting, driving, concentration, standing, travel, or irregular hours.
A licensed clinician should address medical restrictions. A lawyer should not create or dictate a work note.
Employees Need More Than a Verbal Estimate
Useful proof can include payroll history, wage rates, overtime, schedules, employer verification, disability payments, PTO usage, missed bonuses, union benefits, commissions, and return-to-work records.
PTO can have value even when a paycheck continued, but the legal and benefit analysis depends on whether leave was earned, replaceable, restored, or otherwise compensated.
Self-Employment Requires a Reliable Baseline
Tax returns, profit-and-loss statements, bank records, invoices, contracts, calendars, client cancellations, payroll, and comparable prior periods may help. Lost gross receipts must be distinguished from expenses that were avoided.
Mike can organize the claim and identify what an insurer is likely to challenge. A qualified accountant or economic expert may be needed for complex or future loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim wages if my employer kept paying me?
It depends on the source of payment and benefits used. PTO, salary continuation, disability benefits, reimbursement rights, and collateral-source rules may affect the analysis.
Will tax returns be required for a self-employed claim?
It depends on the amount, dispute, and available records, but insurers often request tax and business documents to test the claimed baseline. Tax advice should come from a qualified professional.
Sources and Further Reading
Important
This article provides general New Jersey information and is not legal advice. Every matter depends on its facts, policy language, deadlines, and applicable law. Medical questions should be discussed with a licensed physician. Tax questions should be discussed with a qualified tax professional.