CICA Compensation and Loss of Earnings: What You Need to Know

Injury after a violent crime often means time away from work, cancelled shifts, and long-term disruption to income. For many of our clients, the financial impact becomes as stressful as the injury itself. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) Scheme offers compensation for loss of earnings and certain essential expenses, but the requirements are strict. Understanding those rules at the outset can make a real difference to the outcome of your claim.

This guide explains how the CICA approaches loss of earnings, what evidence you need, and the common pitfalls that lead to reduced or refused awards. It also highlights when legal support can help you secure a fair result.

Who Can Claim Loss of Earnings?

Loss of earnings can only be awarded if three key conditions are met.

You have been unable to work for more than 28 weeks

The Scheme does not compensate loss of earnings for the first 28 weeks of absence. Only losses beyond that point are considered, so it is important that your medical records clearly show your ongoing incapacity.

You had a consistent work history before the incident

In most cases, you must show:

regular paid employment, or
at least three years of verifiable earnings records.

This rule often affects self‑employed workers or those with irregular income. It does not automatically bar you from claiming, but you will need alternative evidence such as tax returns, accounts, contracts or bank statements.

Your inability to work is directly linked to the injuries

The CICA relies heavily on medical evidence. GP entries, hospital notes and psychological reports must explain how your injuries stopped you from working and why you remain unfit for work.

How the CICA Calculates Loss of Earnings

The CICA uses a fixed rate equivalent to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP).
It does not reimburse your actual salary, even if you earned significantly more. For some clients this comes as a surprise, but being aware of the fixed-rate calculation helps avoid unrealistic expectations.

Loss of earnings is usually awarded from week 29 of your absence until medical evidence confirms you are fit to return, or until you do return, to work.

Special Expenses: Additional Financial Support

Alongside loss of earnings, you may be entitled to special expenses, but only if the item or service is necessary because of your injuries and cannot reasonably be provided free of charge.

These may include:

treatment not available on the NHS
care costs directly linked to the injury
mobility equipment or aids
adaptations to your home
replacement of damaged physical aids (e.g., glasses, walking aids)

You will need receipts, quotes or invoices. The link to the injury must be clear.

Common Pitfalls That Reduce Awards

Many victims meet the basic criteria but lose out because their application lacks the right supporting evidence. The most frequent issues include:

Incomplete medical evidence – particularly for psychological injuries, or where GP records are sparse.
Missing income records – especially for self‑employed claimants.
Returning to work too soon – even a brief return can limit the period compensated.
Not responding to CICA queries – deadlines are rigid and missing them can halt a claim.
Accepting a low award without review – many decisions can be improved through the formal review process or appeal.

These pitfalls are avoidable with early advice and structured evidence gathering.

How Ison Harrison Can Help

Our team regularly supports victims through the CICA process. We gather the medical and financial records required, prepare a strong evidential submission, and challenge decisions where the CICA has misapplied its rules or overlooked important information. For clients who are already under financial strain, having the paperwork handled professionally removes a significant burden.

If you are unable to work because of injuries caused by a violent crime, we can help you understand what you may be entitled to and what evidence you will need.

For clear, confidential advice about a CICA claim, contact Ison Harrison today.