It is common practice for people with a physical injury and/or illnesses to claim for Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) benefits through their superannuation.
A question that we are often asked however is whether a claim can be made for TPD benefits for a pure mental health condition? The answer to this question is yes.
Many people who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar, schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or similar conditions that impact on a person’s ability to work may be entitled to submit a claim for TPD benefits.
If you have been diagnosed with a mental health condition that is impacting your ability to obtain and maintain employment, even if the mental health condition is long standing, you may be entitled to make an application for TPD benefits.
With a claim for TPD benefits for a pure mental health condition, it is important to demonstrate a history of treatment, including general practitioner, psychological and/or psychiatric care. The key to all TPD claims generally, but especially claims for mental health conditions is to be engaged with and have the support of your treating providers, along with good legal advice early in the claims process.
With a history of treatment and the right legal advice a claim for TPD benefits for a pure mental health condition can be successful.
TPD claims for a pure mental health condition can be complicated. For this reason it is important to seek legal advice with respect to your entitlements early. Getting sound legal advice and advocacy from the start of the claims process can avoid costly and lengthy delays and rejections of claims that otherwise ought to have been accepted.
