Claim guides

TPD claims through your super

Total and Permanent Disability insurance: who has it, how to claim and what if it's declined.

You may already be covered

Most superannuation funds include Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance for their members automatically. If you've had more than one fund, you may be able to claim on more than one policy.

Cover can stop if no money has gone into an account for 16 months, unless you chose to keep it. The question is usually whether you were covered when you stopped work, so check older accounts too. You can find your super accounts through myGov (ATO online services).

What 'totally and permanently disabled' means

Each policy has its own definition. Many ask whether you're unlikely ever to work again in a job suited to your education, training or experience. Some look only at your own occupation. The wording matters, so it's worth having a lawyer read your policy.

A TPD claim is separate from WorkCover or a claim for damages, and you may be able to make both. You don't need to have been injured at work.

If your claim is declined

You can ask the fund to reconsider and then complain to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), or in some cases go to court. Time limits apply to each of these steps.

What to do now

1. Find all your super accounts, including old ones, through myGov.
2. Ask each fund whether you had TPD cover and for a copy of the policy.
3. Keep your medical certificates and specialist reports together.
4. Don't withdraw or roll over super before checking how it affects your cover.
5. Get advice before you lodge: the claim forms and medical evidence matter.

General information about Queensland law, not legal advice about your situation.