What evidence do I need for a TPD claim?

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Claiming for TPD can be tricky, especially if you have never done it before. The form requires a lot of time and information, with many claimants finding it confusing to complete, especially without legal assistance. To help improve your chances of a successful TPD claim, we have compiled everything you need to know about the evidence that you should include, who is eligible for a TPD claim, and how to make the claim.

What evidence can I use for a TPD claim?

The evidence that you need for a TPD claim will vary depending on your injury, but typically, you will need proof that your injury or disability prevents you from permanently working. This could be medical evidence or personal accounts detailing your condition. A TPD lawyer can help you gather the evidence that you need and ensure it is suitable, so it is best to speak to a lawyer about your specific case before moving forward. Typically, the four types of evidence below are submitted as part of your TPD claim:

Medical evidence

Medical evidence is one of the most common forms of evidence and will show the extent of your injury, treatment and provide an insight into the future of your injury. Medical evidence can be in the form of scans, medical records, hospital admissions and anything that details your illness or injury, treatment and prognosis.

Professional opinions

Professional opinions can be gathered from your doctor or occupational therapist and are used to strengthen your claim. These testimonials will provide a detailed assessment of your work abilities and condition, proving that you are unable to return to work. These can be submitted alongside medical evidence to back up the claims you are making.

Personal accounts

Personal accounts offer first-hand evidence of your illness or injury. These statements can come from yourself or people close to you, where you can detail the impact your disability or injury has on your daily life and your inability to work. These statements can strengthen your case and provide an insight into how your disability impacts your life.

Workplace documents

Workplace documents are necessary if your disability is related to your work or occupational duties. You should include any workplace incident reports or emails that can strengthen your claim. HR records that prove your work environment is harmful or unsuitable for your condition are also helpful.

Who is eligible for a TPD claim?

You need to be totally and permanently disabled to claim for TPD, including being unable to work due to an illness or injury, or having a disability that will remain for the rest of your life. TPD claims are split into two categories, an occupational and a non-occupational claim. It is important that you understand the difference between the two so you know which to apply for.

Occupational TPD claims are made if your injury happened at work or was caused by your job and you are now unable to work. Non-occupational TPD claims are made if your injury was not caused by your job or at work, but you are still left disabled and unable to work. You might be able to claim superannuation funds or on your insurance, too, but this will vary depending on your injury. Typically, this is permitted for the following conditions:

• Chronic illnesses – that prohibit you from working, including diabetes, cancer and heart disease

• Death – if you are the spouse or child of someone who has died from their injuries

• Mental health conditions – like anxiety, depression, and PTSD if they prevent you from working

• Physical injuries – like back injuries, brain injuries, and neck injuries that prevent you from working

• Pregnancy – if your pregnancy prevents you from working

A TPD lawyer will be able to help you determine if you qualify for TPD and can offer support through the application process.

How to make a TPD claim

Applying for your TPD will be done through your insurance provider, and the steps might vary depending on the provider you have. We recommend that you seek legal advice to have someone guide you through the application process and answer any questions you might have. TPD claims will usually follow the five steps outlined below:

1. To start, you need to notify your insurer that you intend to make a TPD claim, either over the phone or in writing

2. Your insurance provider will send you TPD forms for you to complete

3. With the help of a lawyer, you can complete the forms, including evidence that you are unable to work due to your disability or illness

4. Your insurance provider assesses your claim, speaking to your employer and using medical records to verify your claim

5. A decision will be made and relayed to you. If your claim is successful, a lump sum will be paid to you. If the claim is rejected, you can appeal the decision with the help of your lawyer.

Find your TPD lawyer today

When applying for TPD, we recommend that you have a lawyer to answer any questions you have and guide you through the process. When choosing a lawyer, look for a reputable company of lawyers, like Smith’s Lawyers. Smith’s have a dedicated team of TPD lawyers who can support you with your claim and appeal the decision if needed. Contact Smith’s Lawyers for your TPD claim lawyers today.

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