Any Occupation TPD Claims

4 min. readlast update: 02.11.2025

Deciphering 'Any Occupation' TPD Insurance Coverage

Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance provides financial protection when an illness or injury prevents you from working. However, the type of TPD coverage you hold—especially under an ‘Any Occupation’ policy—can significantly impact your claim.

At Claimsplus Lawyers, we specialise in TPD claims and help clients understand how ‘Any Occupation’ coverage works, what’s required for a successful claim, and how to navigate insurer scrutiny.


What Is an ‘Any Occupation’ TPD Claim?

An ‘Any Occupation’ TPD policy provides coverage only if you are permanently unable to work in any job suited to your education, training, or experience. Unlike an ‘Own Occupation’ policy, which covers inability to return to your specific job, an ‘Any Occupation’ policy sets a higher threshold for eligibility.

To successfully claim under an ‘Any Occupation’ policy, you must prove that:
Your illness or injury prevents you from performing any reasonable work aligned with your qualifications and experience.
You cannot be retrained or upskilled into a new profession due to your disability.


Key Considerations for ‘Any Occupation’ TPD Claims

1. Proving Total and Permanent Disability

  • Insurers assess your education, past work experience, and transferable skills to determine if you could still work in another role.
  • If they believe you can be retrained or transition into a different field, they may reject your claim.
  • Medical evidence is crucial—your doctors must explicitly state that you are unfit for any suitable employment.

2. Variations in Policy Definitions

  • Not all ‘Any Occupation’ TPD policies are the same—some may have broader or stricter interpretations.
  • Some policies exclude mental health conditions or require additional proof beyond medical certification.
  • Reviewing your policy in detail can clarify eligibility criteria and avoid unexpected denials.

3. The Cost vs. Coverage Trade-Off

  • ‘Any Occupation’ TPD policies are more affordable than ‘Own Occupation’ policies because they have stricter payout conditions.
  • While these policies are cost-effective, they often require stronger evidence to secure approval.

Why ‘Any Occupation’ TPD Claims Are More Challenging

Since insurers aim to reduce payouts, they often:
Argue that you can perform alternative work despite your disability.
Dispute medical evidence, requiring additional assessments.
Request independent medical examinations to challenge your claim.

Without a well-prepared application, many claimants face delays or rejections.


How Claimsplus Lawyers Can Help

Navigating an ‘Any Occupation’ TPD claim can be complex. At Claimsplus Lawyers, we provide:

Expert Legal Guidance

✔ We review your policy terms to ensure you meet eligibility requirements.
✔ We explain insurer tactics and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Strong Medical & Legal Evidence Preparation

✔ We ensure your medical reports clearly prove you cannot work in any occupation.
✔ We work with specialist doctors, vocational experts, and financial advisors to strengthen your claim.

Appeals & Claim Disputes

✔ If your claim is denied, we challenge the decision through appeals or legal action.
✔ We escalate disputes to AFCA (Australian Financial Complaints Authority) if required.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between ‘Any Occupation’ and ‘Own Occupation’ TPD?

  • ‘Any Occupation’ TPD: You must prove that you are unable to work in any job suited to your skills, education, or training.
  • ‘Own Occupation’ TPD: You only need to prove that you cannot return to your specific profession or role.

Why is an ‘Any Occupation’ TPD claim harder to get approved?

Insurers may argue that you can be retrained for another role, even if you cannot return to your previous job. Medical and vocational evidence must strongly support your case.

What happens if my ‘Any Occupation’ TPD claim is denied?

If your claim is rejected, we can:
Challenge the insurer’s decision through an internal appeal.
Lodge a complaint with AFCA for independent review.
Take legal action to dispute unfair assessments.

Do I need a lawyer for an ‘Any Occupation’ TPD claim?

While not required, having a TPD claim lawyer significantly improves your chances of successfully navigating complex policy requirements and insurer challenges.


Need Help With Your ‘Any Occupation’ TPD Claim?

If you're unsure about your TPD eligibility or need assistance preparing a strong, evidence-backed claim, contact Claimsplus Lawyers today.

📞 Phone: 1800 252 460
📧 Email: claims@claimsplus.com.au
🌐 Website: https://claimsplus.com.au

Let us help you navigate your super claims and secure the financial support you deserve


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