There’s been a lot of bad press recently surrounding total and permanent disability (TPD) cover with some products offered by insurers less likely to bring payouts to sufferers. This is the case whether they have TPD injuries to their back, neck, or shoulders working as pickers or packers, or in warehouses; those with cleaning jobs, or who work in other areas. But delayed payouts have also been experienced by claimants, particularly those who have sustained an injury while working in jobs where they see traumas, such as the police, fire fighters, nurses and suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental injuries and illnesses. Claimants have spoken out on television current affairs programs about the delays and battles they’ve had with insurers, with one insurance company using deliberate delaying tactics to drag out their process. Although this behaviour is totally unacceptable, unfortunately, it happens. So, how long does it take to get a TPD payout? More to the point, how long should it take?
At PK Simpson, we are experts in super and TPD claims – We help Australians nationwide claim their benefits – you’re in safe hands with us – We’re big on keeping our clients up to date and supported throughout their claims.
When Your TPD Claim Goes According to Plan
Any TPD injury claim including e.g:
- Physical injuries
- Psychological injuries
- Arthritis
- Heart conditions
- Spinal fusions
- Operations on knees, hernias, arthritis etc.,
Any associated conditions caused by medicines including:
- Digestion problems
- Sexual or social issues
These should be resolved within two to three months of your insurer receiving the forms along with the documented medical evidence. For anyone suffering a TPD, this can seem like a very long time if they have no income. However, if you find yourself in this situation, it’s best to try to be patient while your insurer assesses your claim. You should ask your insurer for an update if you haven’t received an answer after three months. Be sure to follow any instructions given to you in applying for TPD benefits because this will make the process faster. Should you fail to provide documents or make errors in your application, it could cause major hiccups, although many claimants who are diligent still encounter delays.
PK Simpson is the only superannuation law firm with a client services department who are dedicated, 100 per cent of the time, on making sure clients are happy.
How Can I Get a Quicker TPD Claim Benefit?
The first thing to do if your TPD claim is taking longer than three months (some claims can drag on for years) is to get in touch with PK Simpson lawyers. We specialise in TPD claims and can help expedite your case. You can also follow this course if your original application was rejected, and you don’t agree with the decision. At times, the mere threat of legal action can be enough of an incentive for the insurer to get on with accepting your claim without delay and providing the payout you deserve. If the insurer doesn’t budge, our experienced TPD claim lawyers can gather evidence for you and start court proceedings. A successful claim results in a lump sum payout and the insurer will likely have to pay your legal costs and interest.
If you’re unable to work due to an injury or illness, the friendly team of lawyers at PK Simpson will make sure you’re looked after, and every fund you’ve ever been a member of is looked into – You might have more than one TPD claim –
We maximise results by obtaining required specialist reports, and we pay for all medical reports
Why Do Insurers Often Delay TPD Claims?
Yes, it’s understandable that insurers need a reasonable time to make an assessment on a TPD claim, but some of them deliberately slow the process by asking for information bit by bit. Everyone knows insurers collect the highest premiums but pay out the lowest claims. This kind of unethical behaviour should be exposed, since insurers are obliged to treat claimants in good faith. Also, it’s against the law for insurers to frustrate or unreasonably delay a claim. Reasonable requests for information should be the norm, and insurers should send claimants for medical examinations as soon as possible. If your insurer fails to do this, they could be breaking the law which might entitle you to penalty interest. If you are in this category, do seek legal help because claimants who are not represented are usually the ones whose claims are delayed for years.
If you think your insurer is delaying your claim, find out what your rights are by contacting PK Simpson, TPD specialists, today on 1300 757 467 or email enquiries@pksimpson.com.au.
