Did you know that if you get seriously injured, you may be able to make a personal injury claim against your superannuation policy? This claim is called a total permanent disability (TPD) claim and it can provide a lump-sum payment from your superannuation account if you are so seriously injured that you are unable to work again.

What is a TPD claim?

You may be able to make a TPD claim if you suffer from a serious personal injury or an illness that makes it hard or impossible for you to return to work. Your injuries could be the result of a car accident, an accident at work, or anything else that leaves you permanently incapacitated. TPD lump-sum payments can make the world of difference for you financially while you try to piece your life together again after an accident, but they can be difficult to obtain.

How do I know if I can claim TPD against my superannuation?

Many superannuation funds include some cover for TPD personal injury claims. If you’re in any doubt about your right to claim TPD, you can check your superannuation policy’s product disclosure statement to find out all the details.

How can I make a TPD claim?

Typically, making a TPD claim is a question of filling out the right claim forms along with your medical report outlining the details of your personal injury and any other supporting documents. Each case is different, but a TPD claim can take less than six months depending on your situation. It’s very much in your interest to get the help of an experienced legal adviser to assist you with your claim and take the pain out of the paperwork for you.

How do I qualify for a TPD claim?

In order to make a successful TPD claim, you’ll need to prove that you are unable to return to the type of work you have experience and training in due to your personal injury or illness. The bar is set high and you’ll need to have medical evidence to verify the level of your permanent disability.

What happens if my TPD claim is rejected?

If your TPD claim is rejected by your superannuation fund, there are a few things you can do. First, you can lodge a complaint with the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal. If that’s unsuccessful then you can continue with court proceedings to appeal the decision. In any of these scenarios you’ll need the services of experienced TPD claim lawyers to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How much can I get from a TPD claim?

Each TPD claim is different and the amount you receive will depend on the amount for which you are insured in your superannuation policy. Contact your superannuation fund to find out your level of cover.

TPD personal injury claims

TPD claims can be hard to make and insurance companies may be reluctant to pay them out. If you or a loved one need to make a TPD claim for serious personal injury, then be sure to contact an experienced lawyer. At NSW Compensation Lawyers, we have a wealth of experience in this area, so give our friendly team a call. You can contact us here.

Useful links

• Superannuation Complaints Tribunal – This is the link to the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal if your claim is rejected: http://www.sct.gov.au/
• Financial Ombudsman Service – Complaints regarding issues with your superannuation fund can be made with the Financial Ombudsman Service: www.fos.org.au