TPD & IP Claims for Addiction

3 min. readlast update: 08.31.2024

TPD & IP Claims for Addiction

At Claimsplus Lawyers, we understand the complexities surrounding Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) and income protection claims related to drug and alcohol addiction.

Claimsplus Lawyers support

 Contrary to common belief, addiction does not automatically disqualify you from being eligible for TPD benefits or income protection. Our extensive experience includes guiding numerous clients to successful claims outcomes, demonstrating that cessation of work due to addiction issues

 can indeed qualify for benefits, provided substantial medical support backing the claim.

Key Challenges in Disability Insurance for Substance Addiction

The primary obstacle in securing TPD claims for substance addiction lies in obtaining the appropriate medical treatment and support for your condition.

The financial burden of ongoing medical consultations, including visits to doctors, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals, poses a significant barrier for many individuals we assist. This challenge is exacerbated for those unable to access necessary healthcare services in their area, particularly affecting individuals in rural or regional settings.

Such difficulties can lead to potential claim denials for reasons including:

  • Lack of consistent care or advice from a medical practitioner is a common requirement for claiming income protection and is sometimes necessary for TPD benefits.
  • An assumption by the fund or insurer that the claimant has not reached maximum medical improvement and is not totally and permanently disabled or not eligible for ongoing income protection.
  • Perceived refusal of medical treatment by the claimant.
  • Misconception of the illness as a lifestyle choice, thereby questioning the legitimacy of the condition (although this perspective is less frequent in recent insurance claims).

Strategies for Successful TPD Claims Involving Substance Addiction

At Claimsplus Lawyers, while we do not offer medical or treatment advice, emphasising the importance of medical support in your claim is crucial. Successful claims typically require the backing of at least one treating physician. If you are currently seeing a doctor or have done so previously, we can work directly with you or your doctor to solidify your claim.

Should additional support be necessary, we consider involving a consultant, such as a medicolegal psychiatrist or other medicolegal experts (e.g., Vocational Assessor), to enhance your claim's strength.

These independent assessments are instrumental in addressing insurers' claims regarding the need for further treatment or assertions that additional treatment could enable work capability.

Moreover, in cases where drug and alcohol addiction is dismissed as not being a genuine illness or deemed a lifestyle choice, we assist in acquiring medical evidence to substantiate the medical basis of your addiction, reinforcing your claim.

Expert Legal Assistance for Your TPD and Income Protection Claim

Navigating TPD and income protection claims with an underlying issue of substance addiction requires expert knowledge and sensitive handling. With Claimsplus Lawyers, you're assured of having a skilled legal team experienced in TPD claims. Do not hesitate to contact us for bespoke advice tailored to your unique situation. Our history of aiding clients with similar challenges underscores our commitment to securing favourable outcomes.

Contact Claimsplus Lawyers for Professional Support:

Phone: 1800 252 460
Email: claims@claimsplus.com.au

Our Approach to Fees

At Claimsplus Lawyers, we pride ourselves on being a premier superannuation and insurance law firm. We deliver top-tier services at competitive prices, never compromising on quality or expertise, ensuring you receive the best legal support available.

If you've obtained a quote from another firm, we encourage you to share it. Upload or email your quotation/estimate, and let's discuss our fees. We're confident in our ability to offer you an exceptional value proposition that aligns with your needs.


Disclaimer: This website’s content is general in nature and should not be taken as legal advice. For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Liability limited by a scheme under the Professional Standards Legislation.  

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