Receiving a TPD rejection letter is devastating. But before anything else, check the date — because most insurers require you to request an internal review within 60 to 90 days of the decision. Missing this window can severely limit your options.
Why the deadline matters
The internal review (IDR) is the first and most important step in challenging a rejected claim. If you miss the insurer's internal review deadline, you may lose the ability to appeal through that pathway — and escalating to AFCA becomes more complicated.
What to do immediately
- Read the rejection letter carefully — it should state the deadline for requesting an internal review
- Note the date — the clock typically runs from when you received the decision letter, not when you read it
- Contact the insurer in writing — notify them of your intent to request an internal review immediately, even if you're still gathering additional evidence
- Seek help quickly — getting specialist assessment of whether the rejection can be challenged should happen within days, not weeks
If you've already missed the deadline
All is not necessarily lost. If you missed the insurer's internal review window, escalating directly to AFCA may still be an option, depending on the circumstances and timing. AFCA generally requires complaints to be lodged within 2 years of the IDR outcome — but if there was no IDR, the rules can be more complex.
Don't wait any longer — get a free eligibility check and find out where you stand.