Making a successful TPD claim requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the process. Through our extensive experience handling thousands of TPD claims, we’ve developed a comprehensive approach that maximises our client’s chances of success.

Let’s walk through each step of the process.

Step 1: Initial assessment (2-4 weeks)

The success of your TPD claim begins with a comprehensive assessment of your situation and coverage.

Confirm your coverage details
Start by contacting your superannuation fund or insurer to confirm your TPD insurance coverage. Many clients are surprised to discover they have multiple TPD policies across different super funds, particularly if they’ve changed employers over the years. You might also be eligible for coverage under different policies that you weren’t initially aware of.

Review your policy and claims forms
Request and carefully review your policy documents and claims forms. It’s crucial to focus on how your policy defines “total and permanent disability,” as this definition will form the foundation of your claim. Different policies may have slightly different criteria, so understanding the specific requirements is vital to formulating an effective strategy.

Verify the validity of your insurance
Check that your TPD insurance was valid at the time of the injury or illness and that it remains valid now. Policies have specific coverage periods, and they typically don’t provide retroactive coverage. In cases of long-term or progressive conditions, such as chronic pain or illness that has worsened over time, determining the start of your disability can be complex. This is why it’s crucial to consult with a TPD lawyer to clarify any uncertainties about when your condition legally began.

Step 2: Documentation gathering (4-8 weeks)

The documentation phase is a critical stage of your TPD claim, as the quality and comprehensiveness of the evidence you provide can significantly influence the outcome. The more thorough and detailed your supporting documentation, the stronger your claim will be.

Medical evidence

Your medical documentation should tell a clear and comprehensive story about your condition and its impact on your life.

We recommend gathering:

• Detailed reports from at least two medical practitioners, including your treating specialists
• A complete treatment history, including all medications, therapies and interventions attempted
• Future treatment plans and prognosis reports
• All relevant medical imaging and test results
• Hospital admission records and discharge summaries
• Mental health assessments, if applicable.
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In a recent case, we helped a client with chronic fatigue syndrome strengthen their claim by obtaining specialised reports from both their immunologist and a neuropsychologist, providing compelling evidence of both the physical and cognitive impacts of their condition.

Employment documentation

Your employment history needs to demonstrate both your pre-disability work capacity and the impact of your condition on your ability to work. Gather:

• A comprehensive employment history covering the past decade
• Detailed job descriptions and duty statements
• Recent payslips and tax returns
• Documentation of any attempted return-to-work programs
• Performance reviews from before and after your condition developed
• Workplace incident reports if your condition is work-related.

Additional supporting evidence

We’ve found that supplementary evidence can often make the difference between acceptance and rejection. Consider including:

• Centrelink documentation showing any benefits you’ve received
• Workers’ compensation records if applicable
• A detailed diary documenting how your condition affects your daily activities
• Witness statements from family members, colleagues, or carers who can attest to the impact of your condition
• Financial records showing the economic impact of your disability.