Total & Permanent Disability Claims (TPD)

Almost all superannuation funds include insurance for death and disability benefits. This is in addition to the contributions that your employer has made to your super fund as required by law.

 

Some also provide income protection for work incapacity that is not covered by a WorkCover or TAC claim.

 

If you suffer an injury that prevents you from working in your usual employment or any other employment you are qualified to perform, you may be entitled to a Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claim. This is determined by assessing your education, training and experience.

 

A TPD claim is available to you regardless of whether you have WorkCover or TAC entitlements arising out of the same injury.

 

The TPD benefit will depend on your age at the date of disability, as the entitlement reduces the closer you get to retirement age.

 

The application process can be complicated and lengthy. We can assist you with the preparation of your application and contact the super fund or their insurer for regular updates on the progress of the claim. This will ensure the application has the best opportunity of success in the shortest time possible.

 

If you have another superannuation account with different fund, you may also have a separate TPD entitlement that can be claimed.

 

Any TPD entitlement, if accepted, will be added to the account balance you hold with the super fund. There are regulations and tax issues to be considered after the claim has been accepted. We can assist you with the decisions that need to be made to protect your future.

 

There is generally a waiting period of 6 months before a TPD claim can be made, however it is important that you seek advice on your potential entitlement as early as possible.

 

Case Note:

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Steve was 56 years old when he fell off a mountain bike while cycling on a local dirt track. In the fall he severely damaged his right shoulder. Steve has always worked in heavy manual occupations and has no office experience and only basic computer skills.

 

Despite 2 surgical procedures the shoulder continues to cause pain and Steve is restricted in his ability to use the shoulder and the range of motion. He cannot perform heavy lifting or work with his right arm above his head.

 

Steve received income protection from the super fund for a period of 2 years and was successful in applying for a significant TPD benefit when there were no other forms of compensation available to him.