Lost Wages and Future Earnings: How They're Calculated in Your Claim

Your Injury Claim · Liz Valdez Garza · 2026-10-17

For many families, the hardest part of an injury isn't only the pain — it's the missed paychecks. Bills keep coming even when you can't work. In a personal injury claim, lost income is one of the most important parts of what you can recover.

Past lost wages

These are the earnings you've already lost from the date of the injury until settlement or trial. They can include:

  • Hourly wages or salary for missed days
  • Lost overtime and shift differentials
  • Missed bonuses or commissions
  • Sick leave and vacation time used because of the injury

Future lost earning capacity

If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future — you can't return to the same job, can only work part-time, or will retire earlier — you may claim loss of earning capacity. This looks at what you would likely have earned over your working life compared with what you can earn now.

How lost income is proven

  • Pay stubs and W-2s
  • Tax returns, especially for self-employed workers
  • A letter from your employer confirming missed time and pay rate
  • Doctors' notes and work restrictions
  • In serious cases, testimony from vocational and economic experts

Self-employed, cash and gig workers

Many people in the Valley work for themselves, in family businesses or in jobs paid partly in cash. Lost income can still be claimed, but documentation becomes even more important: invoices, bank deposits, receipts, client records and tax returns. Start gathering them early.

Don't forget household help

If you can't do things you used to do — yard work, child care, home repairs — the cost of hiring help may also be part of your damages.

Tips to protect your lost wage claim

  1. Follow your doctor's work restrictions and keep copies of every note.
  2. Keep a calendar of missed days and appointments.
  3. Save every pay stub before and after the injury.
  4. Don't return to heavy work against medical advice.

If you were hurt and have questions, Attorney Liz Valdez Garza can help. Call 866-LA-LEONA for a free consultation, or use the case review form on this page. Hablamos español.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim lost wages if I'm self-employed?

Yes. Tax returns, invoices, bank records and client records can help show what you earned and what you lost.

What if I used my sick days or vacation?

Paid leave you had to use because of your injury can often be included as part of your lost wage claim.

Valdez Garza Law Firm, P.C. · 1105 East 6th Street, Brownsville, TX 78520 · 866-LA-LEONA (866) 525-3662