Unable to work because of injury or illness?

A TPD claim is different from a compensation claim. It doesn't depend on anyone being at fault. It is an insurance benefit, and whether you qualify depends on the terms of the policy, the rules of your superannuation fund and your individual circumstances — particularly your medical position and your work history.

What TPD cover generally is

TPD insurance is commonly attached to superannuation accounts by default. If a claim is accepted, it usually results in a lump sum benefit paid into your super account, which may then be released to you subject to the fund's rules and the relevant conditions of release.

Policies define "total and permanent disablement" in different ways. Some assess whether you can return to your own occupation; others consider any occupation for which you are reasonably suited by education, training or experience. Those definitions can produce very different results for the same person, which is why the wording matters.

Other cover you may hold

• Income protection or salary continuance benefits
• Terminal illness benefits
• Death cover (relevant to dependants)
• Cover held across more than one super fund or policy

It is common for people to hold cover in multiple funds from previous jobs. Reviewing all of your accounts is often the first useful step.

Who this may apply to

• People who have stopped working because of injury or illness
• People working greatly reduced hours or in a different, lighter role
• People on Centrelink or income support due to a medical condition
• People whose claim has already been declined by an insurer
• People who are unsure whether they hold any cover at all

What you should do next

• Gather details of your current and past superannuation accounts.
• Request copies of your policy terms and insurance documents from each fund.
• Keep your medical records, specialist reports and employment history together.
• Have the policies reviewed before assuming you are — or are not — entitled.

Rather than guessing, ask us to look at the documents. People are often surprised by what they hold, and equally, some assume they are covered when the policy says otherwise.

Key considerations

Declined claims

An initial decline is not always the end of the matter. Insurers make decisions on the material in front of them, and there are review pathways available in many cases.

Time frames

Policies and fund rules can contain time-related requirements, and delay can make evidence harder to obtain. See our time limits page and speak with us sooner rather than later.

Tax and Centrelink

A TPD benefit can have tax and income support implications. We'll flag where you may need financial or accounting advice alongside the legal work.

Common questions