Total and Permanent Disability Claims – Everything You Need To Know
When a person becomes disabled, there are so many questions about the process for receiving total and permanent disability claims (T&PD claims). For example, there is the question of how long a person should wait before applying for a total and permanent disability claim. Another question is whether or not they will be rejected from receiving total and permanent disability claims if they do not report their disability to the government immediately. This blog provides everything you need to know about total and permanent disability claims.
What Does Total and Permanent Disability Claim Mean?
A total and permanent disability claim is a payment made by an insurance company to a policyholder who cannot work due to an injury or illness. It's different from other forms of insurance in that it doesn't cover death or illness; rather, it pays out if you're left unable to work for the rest of your life. The money can be used to pay off debts, fund future medical treatment, or provide an income until you die.
Who Is Eligible for a Total and Permanent Disability Claim?
One of the most important things to know about a Total and Permanent Disability Claim is that it is not always straightforward. Many factors will affect whether or not you receive one, and the process of applying can be complicated.
The following people are eligible for a total and permanent disability claim:
- A person who has been injured in an accident and will never be able to return to work.
- Any person who has suffered an illness or injury that has left them unable to work.
- A person who has suffered any illness or injury that has left them with a disability but they are expected to recover and return to work.
- A person who suffers from a permanent impairment due to their injuries; includes physical disabilities such as paralysis or loss of limbs.
- Someone who has been diagnosed with Psychological Trauma that prevents them from working full-time.
- A person diagnosed with a mental illness, such as depression or anxiety disorders, preventing them from working full-time.
How Does One Make a T&PD Claim?
You can make a total and permanent disability claim by visiting your insurer's website and selecting “make a claim.” From there on, you will be asked to provide information such as:
- Your contact details;
- The date and time of your accident;
- Details about the accident (location, cause, etc.);
- Any other relevant information about your accident or injury.
What Type of Documentation Do People Need To Prove Their T&PD Claim?
The total and permanent disability claim will be based on your current ability to work. You will need to provide documentation that shows the extent of your impairment, when it began and how it has affected your ability to earn income. This may include:
- Test results (computed tomography scan, MRI, etc.)
- Physical therapy records
- Psychological therapy record
- A note from a professional doctor clearly stating that you are unable to do any work and will be unable to work for an extended period of time.
- A copy of your Worker's Compensation file. This file can be obtained from your employer or the insurance company.
Once these documents are in your possession, you can begin filing for T&PD benefits.
When Can a Person Submit Their Total and Permanent Disability Claim?
In most cases, you can submit your total and permanent disability claim as soon as you become disabled. However, you will need to wait for the claims examiner to approve the claim before receiving any benefits.
The total period of time that it takes for a claim examiner to approve your T&PD claim depends on several factors. For example, if you have previously worked as an employee at a company with experience filing T&PD claims. In that case, you will likely receive approval sooner than someone who has never filed an injury claim or worked at a company with little experience filing this type of claim.
What Types of Support Are Available for People Making T&PD Claims?
The Australian government usually provides a range of support for people who cannot work due to a disability. This can include weekly payments, medical treatment, rehabilitation and education.
How Much Money Can a Person Claim for T&PD?
The amount of money that a person can claim for T&PD will depend on their injury and the severity of the injury. The severity of any injury is measured by its effect on a person's ability to perform daily activities in life. For example, someone who has suffered from a back injury may have trouble standing up straight, bending over or lifting heavy objects.
Can Someone Apply for More Than One Type of Total and Permanent Disability Claim?
You can apply for more than one type of Total and permanent disability claim.
For example, if you're injured in an accident and cannot work because of your injuries, you may be able to claim both a T&PD and a Worker's Compensation payment. You can also claim both payment types if you have been diagnosed with an illness affecting your workability.
However, it's important to note that the type or criteria for each payment type are different. Your doctor will advise which type of T&PD claim is best suited for your situation.
Conclusion
In the event that you are unfortunately injured and become disabled due to an accident, a total and permanent disability claim can help with the financial burden. It can provide you with the necessary financial assistance while your health recovers and you go through rehabilitation. Hopefully, this blog has helped help you know everything about T&PD claims.
