What phrase describes compensation for those suffering from lost earning capacity?

The phrase that describes compensation for those suffering from lost earning capacity is "loss of future earnings." This term specifically refers to the income that an individual would have likely earned in the future if not for the injury or event that affected their ability to work. It takes into account not just the immediate loss of income but also the long-term impact on the individual's earning potential due to their diminished capacity to earn income over time.

In contrast, other terms may not fully capture the nuanced nature of compensating for future earning capacity. "Future earning potential," for instance, might suggest a possibility or chance of earning in the future without specifically quantifying the loss incurred due to the injury. "Net income loss" tends to focus more on the immediate reduction in earned income rather than future implications. "Economic distress compensation" is a broader term that encompasses various forms of economic hardship and does not specifically pinpoint the loss of earnings as a direct consequence of diminished earning ability. Thus, "loss of future earnings" is the most accurate phrase that reflects the specific compensation related to lost earning capacity.