How do I make a TPD insurance claim?

If you’re unable to work due to illness or injury, you may be eligible to make a Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance claim through your superannuation fund or a standalone policy – and often notwithstanding how that injury or illness occurred. TPD insurance can provide a lump sum payment to help support you financially when you can no longer earn an income.

Steps to making a TPD claim:

1. Check Your Policy
Review your superannuation statement or insurance documents to confirm you have TPD cover. Each policy has its own definition of what qualifies as a "total and permanent disability". You may have numerous policies with numerous super funds, and if so then you may be entitled to claim against multiple policies.

2. Gather Supporting Documents

You’ll typically need:

• Medical reports from your treating doctors
• Proof of employment history and income
• Completed claim forms from your insurer or super fund – these can be requested directly from the super fund or their insurer.

3. Submit Your Claim
Lodge the forms and supporting documents directly with your super fund or insurer. Make sure everything is complete to avoid delays.

4. Wait for Assessment
The insurer will assess whether your condition meets the policy definition of TPD. This process can take several months and may involve independent medical assessments.

5. Consider Legal Help
If your claim is delayed, denied, or you’re unsure about the process, seeking legal advice can help you understand your rights and improve your chances of success. Seeking early legal advice prior to lodgement of the claim can result in a better prepared application, mitigation of delays in the assessment process and, if a dispute does arise, your legal representative will be better placed to contest the decision.

Need help with your TPD claim? Contact Kells for trusted compensation legal advice and support throughout your claim process.