Although an estimated 90 per cent of Australian workers have Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) coverage in their superannuation insurance, many don’t realise they are covered. And those who are aware it’s there often aren’t all that clear about whether they qualify and how to make a claim for a total permanent disability.
Total permanent disability TPD insurance cover is there for you in case of an accident or diagnosis that leaves you with a permanent injury. Should that injury or condition that resulted from your illness or accident leave you in a situation where you are unable to continue to work in your usual job – or in any job suitable for you with regard to your skills, experience, education or training – you may qualify to make a claim on your TPD Insurance.
You cannot claim TPD Insurance unless you are in paid employment.
All your health conditions are included in a claim.
Not all TPD Insurance Cover is the Same
TPD insurance is also available in other insurance policies, but there may be different criteria necessary to qualify. Each insurer defines total and permanent disability differently, with some seeing TPD as a person no longer being able to work in their “own occupation” or “usual occupation” due to an accident or illness. This private cover is usually more expensive than the cover that comes with super.
Other insurers see TPD as being unable to ever work again in “any occupation” that is suitable according to a person’s skills, training, education or experience. This cover is less expensive but the claim thresholds are higher.
Permanent Disability TPD Insurance Injuries and Illnesses
If you have permanent disability insurance (TPD cover) and you’ve suffered any injury or illness that stops you from working, you may qualify for a TPD insurance claim. However, the extent of your injury or illness and how it affects your ability to work will be measured according to your permanent disability TPD insurance policy. Always check the product disclosure statement provided by your TPD insurer.
Claimable Disabilities That Qualify Under TPD Cover
If you’re unable to work and you have TPD cover you may qualify to claim for any illness or injury that stops you from going to work. A chronic illness such as multiple sclerosis, a stroke, conditions that affect your mental health, cancer, and autoimmune diseases may qualify for TPD. With sufficient documentation, you may also be able to claim for a psychological injury.
However, e.g., if you have total permanent disability insurance and suffer a back injury in a road accident and your skill, training and the usual job you perform require manual labour, your claim may qualify under your TPD cover. Should you work in a high-stress industry and suffer an autoimmune condition as a result (stress can exacerbate such diagnoses) you may qualify and be successful in claiming a TPD insurance benefit.
Brief examples of what probably won’t win TPD cover claims
For instance, the loss of a toe or a finger is a reportable, serious incident and may cause you pain and discomfort, but it might not qualify you for a total permanent disability (TPD) claim. That is, unless you earn your living as a stringed instrument player and need your finger to perform, or perhaps a ballet dancer whose balance is impaired by a missing toe.
In any case, you must obtain medical evidence and doctors’ records that relate to your injury or illness. But it’s best not to go it alone. For a better chance of success, get the help we provide at the TPD Helpline today. We help people all over Australia claim their superannuation TPD benefits.
TPD Cover Lump Sum Payout
A TPD benefit or lump sum TPD claim payout from your insurance cover is provided to fund your medical expenses including treatment and rehabilitation and to provide financial security. Your TPD lump sum payment may also qualify you for any home modifications, debts, care and support you need.
If you were injured at work, you can still claim total and permanent disability and worker’s compensation payments. If you are awarded workers’ compensation, you can still make a total and permanent disability or TPD claim.
The Benefits of Claiming With the TPD Helpline
With TPD Helpline lawyers assisting you to make your total and permanent disability claim it increases the likelihood of success. We ensure you have sufficient supporting evidence and the right information and documentation before you begin the claims process.
For larger claims specialist doctor opinions can be required prior to approval. We pay for all medical reports up front and get re-imbursed from the TPD benefit once approved. If you have a total and permanent disability and qualify for a TPD claim, you face a major life change so you need to focus on your health and medical treatment allowing our team at TPD Helpline to fight for your financial security. Reach out to us today on 1300 679 222, fill in the online enquiry form or leave a message Monday to Friday, 8.30 am – 5.00 pm (AEST) and we will call back the same day.
