If you’re experiencing an illness or injury that stops you from working, you may be eligible to claim a TPD benefit. For many people, making a TPD claim can be a complex process. That’s why we aim to make the process as simple, fair and transparent as possible, for our claimants.
And while every claim can be different depending on personal circumstances, we treat all of our claimants with compassion, dignity and respect. We’re here to support you, every step of the way.
For a detailed guide on the claims process and the steps you need to take, please download our handbook.
At every stage of the claims process, we’re here to support you and progress your claim as quickly as possible. Our Making a TPD claim video provides an overview of our claims process, and if you would like more details, please refer to our Making a TPD benefit claim handbook.
Every claim is different, and the time it takes to assess a claim can vary. But in each case, we’re here to make the process as straightforward as we can. We follow a 5-step claims process
TPD insurance cover can provide a lump sum payment – a TPD benefit – if you become permanently disabled because of injury or illness and you’re no longer able to work. Your claim for a TPD benefit will be assessed by our insurer, in line with the policy terms and conditions, to see if a benefit is payable.
You may be eligible to make a TPD claim if:
If your claim is approved, the amount payable to you will be the TPD insurance cover you held through your Catholic Super account as at the date of your disablement. The TPD benefit will be paid into your super account and will form part of your total account balance.
You may be eligible to claim permanent incapacity, which allows for the early release of your super account balance.
To be eligible, two legally qualified medical practitioners must first certify that, due to your illness or injury you’re unlikely to ever return to work in any occupation for which you are reasonably qualified by your education, training or experience.
Once we receive this certification the Trustee of Catholic Super will review your claim in line with the early release provisions set out in superannuation law, and the Catholic Super Trust Deed.
You can find more information about Making a TPD benefit claim handbook.
We aim to finalise claims as quickly as possible. In most cases, TPD claims are finalised within six months after all the necessary documentation has been submitted. However, the timeframe may vary depending on the complexity of the claim and the availability of information required from you, your employer, and your treating doctors and specialists.
A TPD payment may incur income tax depending on your personal circumstances and how the benefit is withdrawn. We recommend you seek financial advice to understand how any benefit payment made to you may be taxed
* Refer to the handbook for further details.
Eligibility to receive a TPD benefit doesn’t affect any income protection (IP) payments you may be eligible to claim. Any IP payments you’re receiving will continue for either the duration of your benefit period or until you turn 65 years of age (whichever occurs first), as long as you continue to meet the terms and conditions of the IP policy.
Carol, 55, has always worked in the aged care industry, her last role having worked full-time as a care assistant at an aged care home for over 20 years. Her roles have always been physically demanding, requiring lifting, assisting residents and maintaining a full range of movement.
Over a year ago, Carol was involved in an accident that resulted in serious injuries to her back, shoulder and neck. Since then, she has been unable to return to work.
Carol has undergone surgery to repair the damage to her shoulder and is receiving ongoing treatment for her shoulder and back. However, she still experiences chronic pain and headaches, along with restricted movement, limited capacity to sit or stand for long periods of time and reduced strength to her shoulder and arm. These ongoing issues make it difficult for her to safely perform the physical duties required in her role.
At her most recent specialist appointment, it was confirmed that there has been no significant improvement in her condition, and her restricted movement is now considered permanent.
Does Carol meet the TPD definition?
Carol’s role requires a high level of physical capability, including strength and mobility. Due to her ongoing symptoms and permanent limitations, she is no longer able to carry out the duties of her role.
Carol meets Part 1 of the TPD definition. She has been absent from work for more than three consecutive months and is unlikely to return to a role suited to her education, training, or experience. She’ll be unable to undertake any retraining or re-skilling in the future based on the advice and treatment of her doctors.
If you don’t have TPD cover or don’t meet the TPD policy requirements, you may still be able to apply for Permanent Incapacity to access your super early under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Regulations 1994.. You may also be eligible to make a claim under Income Protection cover, if this is included in your super.
For more information, visit csf.com.au/claims or contact us.
The sample case studies are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not representative of a member’s actual experience in Catholic Super or any other fund. The benefits that a member may receive will depend on the individual and specific circumstances that comprise a member’s claim.
Insurer is MetLife Insurance Limited (ABN 75 004 274 882 AFSL 238096). Please refer to the Insurance in your super guide for more information available at csf.com.au.
Craig, 52, has worked as a full-time accountant for the past 12 years. Following a bike riding accident, Craig fractured his ankle and has been off work for four months.
He has undergone surgery and is currently undertaking physiotherapy. Based on medical advice, Craig is expected to make a full recovery and return to work in his usual role.
Does Craig meet the TPD definition?
Although Craig has been unable to work for more than three consecutive months, he doesn’t meet Part 1 of the definition because medical advice indicates that his condition is temporary and that he is likely to fully recover and return to work.
Craig also doesn’t meet Part 2 of the definition as he is able to perform the everyday working activities.
If you don’t have TPD cover or don’t meet the TPD policy requirements, you may still be able to apply for Permanent Incapacity to access your super early under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Regulations 1994.. You may also be eligible to make a claim under Income Protection cover, if this is included in your super.
For more information, visit csf.com.au/claims or contact us.
The sample case studies are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not representative of a member’s actual experience in Catholic Super or any other fund. The benefits that a member may receive will depend on the individual and specific circumstances that comprise a member’s claim.
Insurer is MetLife Insurance Limited (ABN 75 004 274 882 AFSL 238096). Please refer to the Insurance in your super guide for more information available at csf.com.au.
Having to stop work because of an illness or injury can be stressful for you as well as your family. And going through the process of making an insurance claim can seem like an additional challenge. Our team is here to help guide you and ensure the claims process is as easy and straightforward as possible
Making a claim can be a difficult and emotional process.
Whenever you’re ready, or if you need some guidance, please call us on: 1300 655 002
Monday to Friday between 8:30am-6:00pm AET.
Are you a First Nations person or experiencing difficulty providing documents
If you’re having trouble providing the required documents or proof of your identity, please give our team a call
on 1300 655 002, Monday to Friday 8:30am to 6:00pm AET
Catholic Super offers expert financial advice services through our licensed Financial Planners.
Our advisers can provide assistance on the likely impact of any benefit payment with regards to your personal financial situation, and help you make informed decisions about your benefit.
Catholic Super offers expert financial advice services through our licensed Financial Planners.
Our advisers can provide assistance on the likely impact of any benefit payment with regards to your personal financial situation, and help you make informed decisions about your benefit.
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