Are You Entitled to a Disability Claim From Your Super Fund?

Many superannuation and insurance policies come with benefits to protect you if you are unable to work due to illness or disability. Unfortunately, accessing these benefits can sometimes be a long and complex process.

How to Make a Claim

You should start by determining which insurance benefits you may be able to access, depending on your circumstances and the policies.

The two main disability benefits are:

• Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) – offering lump-sum payments to individuals who are no longer able to do their regular job or any other work related to their training and experience.
• Total and Temporary Disability (TTD) – offering monthly payments for workers unable to do their regular job for up to two years. Payments are up to 75 per cent of your gross income and can sometimes be offset against workers compensation, motor vehicle compensation or Centrelink payments.

It’s a good idea to speak to one of our disability claim experts for an analysis on your situation and to determine your ability to make a claim and which insurance benefit to aim for.

What Are the Requirements for Making a Disability Claim?

The requirements vary depending on the type of claim you’re making. TPD claims require you to demonstrate that you cannot do your job or any other jobs you have education, training or experience for. You don’t have to prove that someone else was at fault. TTD claims only require you to show that you cannot do your job, are under the care of a doctor and are not receiving a wage or income.

The criteria for claiming benefits are also different from policy to policy. For example, insurers usually have a minimum waiting period from the time you make a claim to when you’re paid. Common periods are 3 or 6 months of continuous absence from work.

Some insurers also require you to meet a minimum level of work before you’re eligible. This includes minimum length of employment, minimum hours and full-time work status. Depending on the policies, your ongoing medical care and ability to perform ‘daily activities’ like showering and dressing is also assessed.

Are There Time Limits for Making a Disability Claim?

There are strict time limits for making a claim. Disability benefits must be lodged within two years of permanently ceasing work. The claims process can take a long time, from mandatory waiting periods to appealing rejected claims. The sooner you lodge a claim, the sooner your claim can be assessed and potentially lead to a quick resolution.

Brisbane Injury Lawyers Can Help

Our team of experienced superannuation and disability insurance lawyers can help guide you through the claims process and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to. We offer our services on a “no win, no fee” basis, meaning you’ll only pay fees if the outcome is successful.

Get in touch today on (07) 3171 9313 or contact us online.