By Eric Shore | Law Offices of Eric A. Shore
Published: January 26, 2026
If an injury prevents you from working, start saving paperwork from day one. These records prove what happened, the treatment you received, and why you couldn’t work. This applies to both personal injury and disability claims, what we often call a “Disinjury” situation, where your injury directly impacts your ability to earn.
Why does paperwork matter so much?
Paperwork creates proof. Without records, insurance companies and disability carriers control the story. Legal cases are decided by documents, not memory. Missing records give insurers an excuse to deny claims or reduce payouts.
 What should I set up on day 1?
 You only need 3 tools to stay organized from the start. Create a physical folder, a phone folder named “Injury,” and a digital notes file called “Timeline.”
Write down the date and location, what you were doing, where you went for care, and your job duties. Do not rely on memory later.
What medical records should I save?
Save every document you receive from doctors, hospitals, and therapists. Medical records support both personal injury and disability claims, including Social Security Disability.
Essential documents:
- ER discharge papers and imaging reports (MRI, CT, X-ray)
- Office visit summaries and physical therapy notes
- Doctor work restriction notes and medication lists
- Bills and Explanation of Benefits (EOB)
What work and income records should I keep?
You must prove exactly how your injury affected your income. Both lost wages and reduced earning capacity require hard documentation to be recovered in a claim.
Keep these items:Â
- Pay stubs from before and after the injury.
- Work schedules and timecards.
- Proof of missed shifts or reduced hours.
- Your job description and emails about work limits.
FAQ
What if I lost early paperwork?
Start now. Request complete medical records from your providers. Use calendars, photos, and pharmacy history to rebuild your timeline.
 What proves I cannot work?
Doctor restriction notes that list specific physical limits, consistent income records, and a daily activity log.
