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I had to stop work when I became ill. Am I eligible for a TPD payout?
Yes, if your critical or terminal illness has forced you to stop working, it’s likely that you’re eligible to make a TPD claim.
Most superannuation policies include TPD (total and permanent disability) insurance, which pays you a lump sum if you’re unable to work. This includes critical illness claims and terminal illness claims. For example, a multiple sclerosis critical illness claim would provide a lump sum if you’re unable to work due to the symptoms of MS.
Here are three questions that will help you determine if you qualify for a TPD claim:
- Were you working in the 12 months prior to your illness being diagnosed?
- Have you been unable to return to work since developing your illness?
- Do you have any superannuation?
If you answered yes to these questions, then it’s likely you can make a TPD claim for your critical or terminal illness.
Which illnesses are covered by TPD insurance?
Any illness that prevents you from returning to work could qualify for a TPD claim. Here are some examples of illnesses that could prevent you from working:
- Cancer
- Motor Neurone Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Dementia
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Chronic Lung Disease
- Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Cardiomyopathy
- Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
There’s no defined “list” of terminal illnesses and critical illnesses that are covered by TPD policies — but if you’ve developed an illness that has stopped you from returning to work, then it’s likely you’re covered under most TPD policy definitions.
What's the claim process?
We make the claim process easy for you.
What will it cost me?
There are no upfront costs. We’ll provide free claim advice, we’ll cover all the costs to prepare and run your case and we only get paid when you receive your compensation. Also, just like a mobile phone bill, we put a cap on our fees so there are no nasty surprises at the end of your claim. You should feel comfortable that you can speak to your lawyer any time, without worrying about the cost getting out of control.
Where can I find an illness expert in my area?
Law Partners is Australia’s largest specialist personal injury firm, and we have 16 local offices.
We have TPD lawyers and legal teams who specialise in illness claims.
To find Law Partners offices near you enter your suburb:
Did you know?
If you don't live close to one of our offices we can provide free advice over the phone, and we can represent you without you having to leave your home. Call 13 15 15 speak to a specialist.
Commonly asked questions.
Can I appeal if my critical illness claim is denied?
Yes, if you have a critical illness TPD claim denied, we can look at it for you and help you understand whether you can appeal the insurer’s decision.
What’s the critical illness claim process?
- Identify all your superannuation / TPD policies
- Check if they were valid when your critical illness was diagnosed
- Take time to understand the approval criteria
- Submit a thorough application, including all documents and medical records to substantiate your claim
- Include a written submission explaining why your critical illness claim should be approved
- Follow up with the insurer to make sure they have everything they need
I don’t know if I have TPD cover. How do I find out?
If you’re not sure whether you have TPD insurance cover, you can call Law Partners on 13 15 15. With your permission, we’ll contact your super fund (or funds) on your behalf and find out what cover you have – there’s no cost for this service.