Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
When you claim compensation for lost wages in Minnesota, you must show evidence of income you lost due to injury or illness. Under Minnesota Statutes section 604.105(c), a claimant may recover economic damages that include past and future lost earnings. Gathering comprehensive records helps prove the exact amount you lost. Commonly accepted records include:
- Payroll Records and Pay Stubs: Provide copies of pay stubs covering the period before and after your injury. These show your regular earnings and any reductions.
- W-2 Forms and Tax Returns: W-2s for the past two to three years verify yearly income. Tax returns can fill gaps if you work multiple jobs or are self-employed.
- Bank Statements: Bank statements corroborate deposits and payment amounts when you lack formal pay stubs.
- Employment Contracts or Offer Letters: Show your salary, hourly rate, bonuses, and employment terms.
- Time Sheets or Attendance Records: Demonstrate the hours you worked and the days you missed due to the incident.
- Correspondence with Employer: Emails or letters requesting leave and any employer response support your claim for missed work.
- Doctor’s Notes and Medical Records: Confirm the period you were unable to work due to injury or treatment.
- Expert Earnings Analysis: A vocational expert or economist can estimate your future lost earnings if you face long-term disability.
- Performance Reviews and Bonus Records: Reveal past raises or bonuses you may have missed.
By assembling these records, you establish a clear, documented basis for the wages you lost. Courts and insurers rely on objective evidence to calculate compensation.
Minnesota Statutes section 604.105 defines recoverable economic damages, including past and future lost earnings.
Helpful Hints
- Organize records chronologically for easy reference.
- Get certified copies of W-2s or tax returns from the IRS if originals are missing.
- Request detailed time slips or attendance logs from your HR department.
- Keep copies of all medical documentation with dates and work restrictions.
- Track additional expenses related to your injury, like commuting for medical treatment.
- Consider hiring a financial expert to calculate complex future losses.
- Maintain a written log of missed days and hours, updated weekly.
- Keep communication with your employer in writing to avoid disputes.
- Review your employment policy for paid leave or disability benefits usage.
- Consult an attorney early to assess what records will strengthen your claim.