When you’re preparing to lodge a Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claim through your superannuation, the paperwork can feel overwhelming.
Insurers and trustees demand evidence at every step — and if documents are missing, incomplete, or inconsistent, your claim can be delayed for months or even rejected outright.
The good news is that by preparing your documents in advance, you can make the process smoother, avoid common mistakes, and give your claim the best chance of success.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Why documentation is so important in TPD claims.
- The categories of documents insurers typically require.
- A complete checklist you can follow.
- Common pitfalls to avoid when submitting paperwork.
- Tips for keeping everything organised.
Why Documentation Matters in TPD Claims
Every insurer assesses claims against their policy’s strict definition of “total and permanent disability.” To prove you meet the definition, you must provide evidence — mostly in the form of documents.
- Medical documents show that your illness or injury prevents you from working again.
- Employment and income records prove your work history and the impact of your condition.
- Fund and identity documents confirm you are eligible and insured at the time of disability.
Without these, the insurer may say there isn’t enough proof, and your claim can stall.
Tip: Inconsistent or vague paperwork is one of the leading reasons TPD claims are initially rejected.
Categories of Documents Required
1. Medical Documentation
This is the backbone of your claim. Insurers typically ask for:
- GP reports – from your main treating doctor.
- Specialist reports – e.g., psychiatrist, orthopaedic surgeon, neurologist, cardiologist.
- Hospital records – admissions, discharge summaries, surgery reports.
- Diagnostic results – X-rays, MRIs, blood tests.
- Treatment history – medication lists, therapy notes, rehabilitation attempts.
- Capacity for work assessments – functional or psychological capacity evaluations.
2. Employment & Income Records
To establish your work history and job duties:
- Employer statement – completed by your current or last employer.
- Position description – what your role involved before disability.
- Payslips or income statements – showing your earnings.
- Tax returns or PAYG summaries – useful if self-employed or for long work history.
3. Superannuation Fund Documents
Your super fund and insurer need:
- Member statement – showing TPD cover.
- Insurance schedule – details of your insured amount.
- Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) – definitions and conditions.
- Claim forms provided by the fund – these usually include:
- Member statement (you complete).
- Employer statement.
- Doctor’s statement.
4. Identity and Personal Documents
To prove who you are and meet compliance obligations:
- Certified ID – driver’s licence, passport, or birth certificate.
- Medicare card.
- Proof of address – utility bills, bank statements.
- Marriage or name change certificates – if relevant.
5. Supporting Evidence
Optional but powerful evidence includes:
- Centrelink records – showing inability to work and reliance on benefits.
- Workers’ compensation claim records – if relevant.
- Statements from family or carers – describing impact on daily life.
- Diaries or journals – documenting pain, symptoms, or limitations.
The Complete Checklist
Here’s a simple list you can tick off when preparing your claim:
Medical
☑ GP medical report
☑ Specialist reports
☑ Hospital discharge summaries
☑ Test results (MRI, X-ray, blood tests)
☑ Treatment history (medications, therapies, rehab)
☑ Functional or psychological capacity assessments
Employment/Income
☑ Employer statement
☑ Job description/duties list
☑ Payslips or income statements
☑ Tax returns or ATO documents
Superannuation/Fund
☑ Current super statement showing TPD cover
☑ Insurance schedule from fund
☑ Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)
☑ Completed claim pack (member, employer, doctor statements)
Identity/Personal
☑ Certified photo ID (licence/passport)
☑ Medicare card
☑ Proof of address (bill/bank statement)
☑ Marriage or change of name certificates
Supporting Evidence (Optional)
☑ Centrelink records
☑ Workers’ compensation claim papers
☑ Carer/family statements
☑ Daily life journals or symptom diaries
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Incomplete forms: Leaving sections blank is a red flag.
- Inconsistent medical evidence: Two doctors giving different views can harm your claim.
- Expired certifications: Certified ID must be signed by an authorised witness within required timeframes.
- Missing deadlines: Insurers impose strict time limits for returning forms.
- Not keeping copies: Always keep duplicates of everything you send.
Tips for Staying Organised
- Create a claim folder (physical or digital).
- Use a timeline of your illness and treatment to match documents.
- Keep a communications log of calls/emails with your fund or insurer.
- Ask doctors to explain medical terms in plain English where possible.
Real-Life Example
Case: Emma, a 42-year-old teacher, suffered severe depression and applied for TPD.
- Initially, her claim was delayed because her GP’s report didn’t match her psychiatrist’s notes.
- Once both doctors updated their reports to reflect the same permanent work restrictions, her claim was approved.
Lesson: Consistency across documents is just as important as completeness.
FAQs
Do I need all of these documents before lodging my claim?
You should gather as much as possible upfront, but your fund can request more during the process.
Can I lodge without specialist reports?
Yes, but insurers often require at least two medical opinions — usually a GP and specialist.
Do I need certified copies of all documents?
Yes for ID, sometimes for medical and fund forms. Always check the fund’s instructions.
What if I can’t get my employer statement?
Provide alternative evidence such as contracts, payslips, and a written explanation.
How long does it take once documents are submitted?
Anywhere from 3 to 12 months, depending on completeness and complexity.
Lodging a TPD claim can feel daunting, but a well-prepared document checklist can remove uncertainty and delay. Medical reports, employment records, fund forms, and personal ID are the essentials — and supporting evidence can make your case stronger.
By staying organised, working with your doctors, and seeking legal advice where needed, you can streamline the process and improve your chances of success.
At TPD Claims Lawyers, we help Australians every day prepare strong claims by making sure all required documents are complete and consistent. If you’re ready to lodge a claim — or your claim has been delayed or rejected — contact us for no-obligation advice.
Last updated: 29 August 2025