Documents You Need to Support a Lost Wage Claim After an Accident in New Jersey

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Detailed Answer

After an accident in New Jersey, you may seek reimbursement for lost wages under your no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. N.J.S.A. 39:6A-4.2 caps PIP wage reimbursement at 85% of gross weekly earnings (up to $5,200 per week in most cases), while N.J.S.A. 39:6A-4.4 governs reimbursement for lost wages due to medical examinations. If your losses exceed PIP limits or you file a third-party tort claim, New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-3) allows recovery for loss of earnings and future earning capacity.

Insurers and courts require objective proof of lost income. The most reliable documents include:

• W-2 Forms: Annual wage statements for the past one to two years to establish baseline income.
• Pay Stubs: Recent pay statements covering the period immediately before and after the accident.
• 1099 Forms: For contract or freelance workers, 1099-MISC or 1099-NEC forms showing nonemployee compensation.
• Tax Returns: Complete federal and state returns (Form 1040 and schedules) for the last two years to verify total income.
• Profit & Loss Statements: For self-employed individuals, a detailed ledger or schedule summarizing business income and expenses.
• Employer Letter: A signed letter from your employer confirming your salary or hourly rate, typical hours worked, and time missed due to the accident.
• Medical Records/Caregiver Logs: Documentation of treatment and recovery that indirectly supports lost earning capacity.

Gather these records early. Submit clear copies to your insurer or the opposing party’s insurer to avoid delays. Retain originals in a secure location. If you pursue litigation, well-organized documentation strengthens your claim for both current and future wage loss.

Key statute references:
N.J.S.A. 39:6A-4.2,
N.J.S.A. 39:6A-4.4,
N.J.S.A. 2A:15-3.

Helpful Hints

• Organize documents chronologically for easier review by insurers or attorneys.
• Request employer letters on company letterhead with signature, dates, and contact information.
• Include a cover letter summarizing your lost wage claim and the documents provided.
• Keep both digital and paper copies for quick sharing and backup.
• Note policy deadlines—PIP claims in New Jersey generally require prompt notice, often within 60 days of the accident.
• Consult a qualified attorney if the insurer disputes your documentation or undervalues your claim.