Want to make an AustralianSuper TPD claim and get a TPD payout? Follow our guide to claiming insurance benefits from Australian Super.
For many Australians, the Australian Super TPD claim process is complex and full of obstacles. With so many things to consider and a substantial amount of paperwork to complete, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. But worry no more. Our complete guide explains the AustralianSuper TPD claim procedure, including step-by-step instructions for making a successful insurance claim.
If you are temporarily or permanently disabled, our article offers guidance on how to make a claim and receive the financial assistance you need to recover.
AustralianSuper is the largest superannuation and profit-for-member pension fund in Australia. In fact, about 10 percent of Aussie workers are AustralianSuper members with access to their insurance cover for:
TPD cover provides a financial safety net in the form of a lump sum payout when faced with an injury or illness that leaves you unable to work. This sizeable payment ensures you have the support you deserve during this difficult period, helping you cope with the financial burden of a permanent disability, including rehabilitation costs.
There are generally two types of TPD insurance cover available to AustralianSuper members:
Understanding these two options is vital for securing the best level of protection when choosing insurance and the amount of cover.
Default Cover is an age-based insurance option that provides basic coverage to most AustralianSuper members. The amount of cover you receive varies based on your age and individual work rating, with the cost of insurance automatically deducted from your super account each month. While this option offers a straightforward solution to your insurance needs, be aware that the amount of cover decreases as you age.
There are benefits and drawbacks to choosing Default Cover. On the upside, it provides automatic death, total permanent disablement (TPD), and income protection insurance to most members without requiring health checks. However, the drawback is that you might not have enough coverage for your needs, leaving you underinsured in specific circumstances or for particular occupations. Additionally, default cover may be more expensive than purchasing TPD insurance directly.
In contrast to Default Cover, the Fixed Cover option allows an AustralianSuper member to maintain a consistent level of insurance coverage, irrespective of age. To establish a fixed cover amount, members must submit an application to the superannuation fund, which will then be approved. In addition to the basic insurance, Fixed Cover offers extra coverage that can be customised to your particular requirements.
While Fixed Cover may seem an appealing choice, bear in mind that it comes with some limitations and drawbacks, such as:
Weighing the pros and cons of Default and Fixed Cover options is key to making a sound decision about your TPD insurance.
To successfully claim a TPD benefit, you must meet the eligibility criteria specified by AustralianSuper, including:
We review these requirements in more detail below, so you can see what is needed to submit a successful TPD claim through super funds. Using this information can increase your chances of getting your due lump sum TPD benefit and help you more easily navigate the claim procedure.
The level of disablement is a key factor in determining your eligibility for a TPD benefit. To qualify, you must:
In some cases, the level of permanent disability may also be assessed based on your ability to carry out activities of daily living.
Waiting periods are another critical aspect of the TPD claim process. These periods, which can range from 30 to 60 days or more depending on your specific plan, must be met before your claim can be processed. Knowing the waiting period linked to your TPD insurance is critical to planning for any potential payout hold-ups.
Remember that the duration of the waiting period can be influenced by factors such as your employer’s arrangements or the specifics of your TPD cover. Be sure to review your policy documents or contact AustralianSuper directly to clarify your waiting period and plan accordingly.
Compelling medical documentation that proves your total permanent disablement and work incapacity is essential for winning TPD claims. One of the common reasons for claim delays or denials in Australia is insufficient proof from your doctor.
For a winning outcome, you must gather comprehensive medical records, including:
Successful TPD claims rely on comprehensive medical documentation from your doctor, healthcare providers and specialists. So please take the time to build a solid foundation for your case. Of course, an experienced insurance claims lawyer will help you prepare your case.
Now that you know the eligibility criteria for AustralianSuper TPD claims, let’s review the steps to make a claim. We will outline the four main steps to file a TPD claim with AustralianSuper, which are:
The first step in making a claim is to contact AustralianSuper. During this initial conversation, AustralianSuper will provide you with the necessary member forms and documentation to process your claim.
At this time, the crucial factor is the requirement for meeting your TPD definition, particularly when claiming for a mental illness (which is typically more challenging as the injury is not visible)
Many Australians find it is not straightforward to seek AustralianSuper TPD compensation or make an income protection claim. That’s because super funds and insurance companies often seek to minimise, delay or deny entitlements. Thankfully, the team at Aussie Injury Lawyers has a 99% insurance claim success rate and offers free advice so you can know your legal rights. Contact us now at 1300 873 252 for your free case review.
Once you have contacted AustralianSuper and have the necessary forms, you can start collecting the required information for your claim. This will include:
Be thorough in your documentation and ensure that you provide accurate and up-to-date information to support your case.
Once you have completed the necessary forms and gathered the documents, you can lodge your AustralianSuper TPD claim. Here are the steps to follow:
While the claim procedure is time-consuming, being organised and proactive will help ensure a smoother experience and improve your chances of success. You can get the financial assistance you need when permanently disabled and maximise your TPD benefits by filing an accurate claim and working closely with AustralianSuper.
Besides TPD insurance, AustralianSuper also provides its members with income protection benefits. Once approved, these insurance benefits provide income when a temporary illness or injury stops you from working. Understanding how income protection claims work, including waiting periods and payment calculations, helps AustralianSuper members protect their financial future.
Income protection waiting periods are important in determining when your payments will start. Depending on your income protection policy terms, waiting periods can range from 30, 60, or 90 days.
Remember that factors like your employer’s arrangements can influence the duration of your waiting period. Before lodging a claim, please review your policy documents or contact AustralianSuper directly to clarify your waiting period so you can play accordingly.
AustralianSuper calculates income protection payments based on 75% of your pre-disability income, with an additional 10% contribution to your superannuation account. This calculation helps you have a reliable source of income during your unemployed period, so you can remain financially stable.
Income protection benefits are provided for up to 2 years by default, subject to the policy terms and conditions. However, you may be able to extend the duration of your benefits in certain circumstances, such as by requesting a longer benefit payment period of up to 5 years or until the age of 65. We recommend you review your policy documents and consult with AustralianSuper to find out your duration options.
There is no doubt the TPD claim process can be complicated and a hassle, particularly when coping with the challenges of a disabling injury, illness or mental health condition. Successfully managing the process requires organisation and a proactive focus on your lump-sum entitlements. Here are some top tips for the AustralianSuper insurance claim procedure.
