The process of a Superannuation and Insurance claim
Every case is different. Generally it takes approximately 6-18 months for a decision on a Total and Permanent Disability claim to be reached, but this can vary. A claim for Income Protection benefits can take between 6 weeks to 3 months. No matter the length of your case, there are a number of steps you're likely to go through during the life of your case. Our expert and caring team will guide you every step of the way.
Get in touch
We'll listen to your story and gather details from you so we can begin investigating your policy.
We'll investigate your policy
After your first contact with our office we'll send you our initial pack which will request details of all your super fund memberships and we'll enclose authorities for you to sign. This will enable our office to make inquiries with your funds about your insurance cover and obtain all relevant claim forms to lodge your claim.
Attend your free initial appointment** to understand your entitlements
Once we receive a response from your funds about your cover, an appointment will be arranged with one of our law clerks or lawyers to discuss your entitlements and obtain detailed advice from you about your injury or illness. The entire claim process will be explained, what we'll do for you and what we require from you. Our legal cost agreement will also be explained in detail to you.
We'll obtain evidence
Once you have signed our cost agreement and are happy for us to act for you, we'll begin obtaining evidence from third parties such as Income Tax Returns, WorkCover/TAC claim files or Centrelink claim files.
The information you provided at the conference will be confirmed in writing to you so you are confident we have the facts of your claim correct. The relevant insurance policy will also be reviewed by our experienced operators to advise you of the specific definition applicable to you.
You'll need to visit your doctor
We'll then provide you with a specific Medical Attendant Questionnaire for your treating practitioner to complete. Once this questionnaire has been returned, we'll review this document and provide you with advice about your claim.
We'll submit your claim
When all supporting evidence has been obtained from third parties, we'll commence drafting detailed legal submissions to the fund and insurer in support of your claim. We'll also complete all claim forms on your behalf and will send this to you for signing.
You might need to attend an independent medical examination
During an independent medical examination you'll be asked about the history of your injury or condition. This will include questions about your work history, previous medical history, or in the case of a psychiatric examination, your previous life experiences. If an interpreter has been requested as part of your referral, this will be organised by the office of Medical Panels prior to the appointment.
Your case will be resolved
When we obtain a successful outcome on your claim, the result will be detailed to you during a phone or office appointment and your instructions obtained about how you wish to take your benefit. It is at this stage that we'll recommend you obtain financial advice. We'll ensure that funds are made available to you as soon as possible.
In the event that your claim is declined, your claim will be reviewed by a lawyer and we'll talk to you about further action you can take.
We can help get you the compensation you're entitled to
Our experienced Superannuation lawyers can transact your claim regardless of where you reside in Australia and can evaluate your circumstances and guide you through the process of making a superannuation claim.
Our team can evaluate your circumstances and guide you through the process of making a claim with your superannuation fund or insurer to maximise your chance of a successful outcome. Contact us today.