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TPD – Total Permanent Disability Insurance

Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance is available through regular insurance companies or superannuation funds. Within super funds, it’s often known as a disability insurance benefit, funded through employer or personal contributions. The benefit in your Super can also be called Total and Permanent Disablement or TPD cover. The TPD insurance helpline can assist with all the information you need about your TPD coverage and claims.

1300 679 222
1300 679 222

Many Australians are either unaware of their TPD coverage or forget it’s available to them. If you become permanently disabled, TPD insurance benefits can provide crucial financial support for:

  • Medical and rehabilitation costs

  • Outstanding debts

  • Mortgage payments

  • Living expenses

  • Other financial losses

The TPD Helpline is available for injured workers to ensure they receive a fair hearing of their case.

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What is TPD insurance, and what does it cover?

Permanent disability TPD insurance covers you for workplace injuries or illnesses that result in permanent disability. Upon a successful claim, your insurer or super fund may pay you a lump sum benefit if you are totally and permanently disabled due to the injury or illness.

Any injury that has a detrimental impact on your ability to work in your usual capacity can be a reason to make a TPD claim. Be aware that the definition of what is considered a total and permanent disability may differ from one insurer to the next. For instance, some policies will cover you if you can’t work in your own occupation, and others will include coverage if you can’t work in any occupation again.

Types of TPD definitions:

  1. Own occupation TPD: Due to your disablement from the injury or illness, you cannot return to the job you had before the incident. This type of TPD insurance cover is more costly and is typically available only in the traditional insurance market rather than in super.
  2. Any occupation TPD: Your disability is such that you cannot ever work again in any job suited to your experience, training or education. This cover is less expensive but is less likely to pay out due to the higher threshold to claim.
  • Activities of daily living assessment: This is another way insurance providers can decide whether you can claim your TPD insurance. If you are unable to perform everyday tasks such as showering or bathing, toileting, dressing, walking or feeding, you may qualify under this definition.

How Much TPD Insurance Do I Need?

When deciding how much permanent disability TPD insurance you need, or if you need it at all, consider what you would do to cover your living expenses if you could never work again due to a permanent disability. The gap between any saleable items or investments that may cover your costs, the help from family, etc., and health insurance for medical expenses, is how much TPD insurance you may need.

Factors to Consider Include:

  • Your current debts (mortgage, credit cards, loans)
  • Ongoing living expenses for you and your family
  • Medical and rehabilitation costs
  • Future financial needs
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Changes to TPD Definitions in Australia – What Does This Mean For You?

For many Australians claiming a lump sum payment, new definitions implemented by some insurers in 2024 to determine what qualifies as total and permanent disability or TPD have changed. Some insurance policies now require a further assessment. The new definition may include whether the disabled person can reasonably retrain or reskill despite their illness or injury.

The new TPD definitions also require injured workers to prove they are so disabled that they can never undertake any meaningful work again. The changes have also increased the cost of necessary and appropriate occupation and medical evidence to prove a case. It can cost some injured workers around $5,000.

People with TPD insurance policies and members of all the Superannuation funds should check their insurance’s terms and conditions and seek advice or change insurers if they’re not satisfied. Before you choose which TPD cover is right for you, or if you are unable to work, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice. Such advice can be from TPD specialist lawyers or a trusted financial adviser.

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What Criteria Must I Meet to Lodge a Successful TPD Claim?

Depending on your insurance cover’s terms and conditions, the criteria you must meet to lodge a successful TPD claim and qualify for benefits may include showing that you are permanently unfit for your usual employment or any other employment. Your medical history and other records, and information will have to be assessed.

Most TPD definitions are similar, but different and subtle changes can affect the insurer’s decision. Be aware of common TPD claims traps that could affect your application.

The TPD definition may include a “retraining clause”. If so, you must show that even if your disability is such that you have been able to undergo retraining, you still cannot return to work.

Can I Claim TPD From My Superannuation Insurance?

If TPD insurance coverage is provided under your superannuation insurance contract, then you can claim disability benefit. Some super TPD policies may pay you a TPD benefit if you cannot return to your “usual” occupation or duties, but you are now working in a different field. For more information, contact the TPD helpline today.

Common Types of TPD Claims

TPD claims can arise from various situations, including:

  1. Physical Injuries: Severe injuries that limit mobility or functionality, including back injuries, spinal cord damage, or amputation
  2. Psychological Injuries: Mental health conditions that prevent return to work, such as severe depression, anxiety, or PTSD
  3. Health Conditions/Illnesses: Chronic diseases or conditions that cause permanent disability, including cancer, heart disease, or neurological disorders
  4. Work Injuries: Injuries sustained in the workplace that result in permanent disability
  5. Car Accidents: Serious injuries from motor vehicle accidents that prevent a return to work

Get in touch

Let us know know about your requirements

Phone

1300 679 222

Email

info@tpdhelpline.com.au

Get in Touch With TPD Helpline Today

Our helpline reps are well-versed in all things related to TPD claims, injury compensation claims, health conditions, illnesses and injuries, whether sustained at work or not. If there is an issue we can’t answer over the phone, we have access to a mountain of resources so that we can call you back within the day to provide answers.

Let us know about your requirements. Phone TPD Helpline Australia at 1300 679 222, contact us or email info@tpdhelpline.com.au.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does a TPD claim take to process?

The time it takes to process a TPD claim varies depending on the complexity of your case, the insurer, and the completeness of your documentation. On average, claims can take between 3-12 months to be assessed and finalised. Having comprehensive medical evidence and expert assistance can help expedite the process.

2. Is a TPD payout considered taxable income?

Generally, TPD payouts received from a superannuation fund may have tax implications depending on your age and other factors. However, TPD benefits received from retail insurance policies are typically not taxable. For specific advice about whether the TPD payout is considered taxable income, we recommend consulting with a tax professional.

3. Can I claim from multiple TPD policies?

Yes, if you have multiple active TPD policies at the time of your disability, you may be eligible to claim from multiple TPD policies. Each policy will be assessed independently according to its specific terms and conditions.

4. What if my TPD claim is declined?

If your claim is declined, you have options, including requesting a review of the decision, lodging a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), or seeking legal advice. Many declined claims are successfully overturned with proper expert assistance.

5. How do TPD lawyers charge for their services?

TPD lawyers’ fees vary depending on the complexity of your case. Many operate on a “no win, no fee” basis, meaning you only pay if your claim is successful. Typical costs may include legal fees, medical report fees, and administrative charges.

6. What are the most common TPD claims in Australia?

The most common TPD claims in Australia include those for musculoskeletal disorders (such as back injuries), mental health conditions (including depression and anxiety), cancer, heart disease, and injuries resulting from accidents.

7. How does my GP's assessment affect my TPD claim?

Your GP’s assessment is crucial for your TPD claim. Your doctor needs to provide detailed documentation about your condition, its permanence, and how it affects your ability to work. Consulting with TPD claim GP doctors who understand the specific requirements for successful claims can significantly improve your chances.

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