A depression TPD claim may be possible if you held the relevant insurance cover and meet the policy’s disability definition and other requirements. A diagnosis alone does not establish eligibility.
TPD claims for depression depend on the applicable policy and evidence addressing its requirements, including the effect on your capacity for relevant work or specified daily activities.
What evidence can help
When preparing your claim, ask your treating practitioners to explain the history of your condition, treatment, response and prognosis. Reports should address your actual limitations rather than simply confirm a diagnosis.
Relevant information might include difficulties with concentration, decision-making, attendance or managing work demands. Employment records can help explain changes in duties, reduced hours, leave and attempts to return to work.
Describe your circumstances accurately, including periods of improvement. The aim is to provide a clear account of your condition over time, not to present an isolated difficult day as the whole history.
Depression alongside other conditions
If you also experience pain, PTSD or another condition, ask your treating practitioners to explain any medically supported interaction between them.
Do not assume that more diagnoses automatically establish a stronger entitlement. Check which conditions and effects can be considered under your cover, including any exclusions. The claim must address the applicable policy requirements.
What if I am still receiving treatment?
If treatment is ongoing, ask your treating practitioners to explain your response so far and the expected outlook. Have that evidence considered alongside the policy wording rather than assuming treatment must finish before you seek advice.
Continue making healthcare decisions with your treating team. Check your cover for any waiting period or other timing requirements rather than relying on a general timeframe. Policies differ, and time limits may also affect a claim or challenge to a decision.
Reviewing a declined depression TPD claim
Start with the written reasons. A dispute about whether insurance cover existed requires a different response from a dispute about the disability definition or supporting medical evidence.
A declined claim may warrant further investigation, but approval cannot be promised. Seek advice early about the reasons, available complaint options and any applicable deadlines.
KSC Law can help with TPD claims for depression by reviewing your policy, identifying the relevant requirements and helping organise supporting evidence. Book a free consultation to discuss the records you have and the next steps.
Related reading: Mental health and PTSD TPD claims · Claiming TPD through your super
Could you have a TPD claim?
Total and Permanent Disability cover is held inside most super funds. Answer a few quick questions to see if you may be able to claim. This is a guide only, not a determination.
This is a general guide only, not an assessment of your policy or eligibility. TPD outcomes depend on your individual super fund or insurance policy terms. This does not constitute legal, financial or medical advice. Book a free consultation for a personalised assessment.
Other claim types
You may be entitled to more than TPD.
Many veterans have overlapping entitlements across DVA, CSC superannuation and TPD insurance. We review all three as part of your initial consultation.
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