The difference between a TPD claim that settles in three months and one that drags for eighteen almost always comes down to the evidence package. A complete, well-constructed submission answers the insurer's questions before they ask them — removing every reason to pause the clock.
The four components of a strong evidence package
1. Medical evidence
This is the foundation. At minimum you need:
- A detailed report from your treating specialist — not a form letter, but a substantive report covering diagnosis, treatment history, response to treatment, and most importantly, prognosis and work capacity
- GP records showing the longitudinal history of your condition
- Specialist reports from every relevant clinician (e.g. psychiatrist, neurologist, pain specialist)
- Diagnostic test results with radiologist or pathology reports
- Hospital records if applicable
Each document should ideally be framed against your policy's TPD definition — not just describing your condition, but explaining why it prevents work.
2. Employment evidence
- Your employment history — roles, duties, hours, salary
- When you last worked and why you stopped
- Employer contact details for verification if required
3. Financial records
- Recent tax returns showing pre-disability income
- Super fund account details and statements
4. The claim form itself
Completed carefully and consistently with your supporting documents. Inconsistencies between the claim form, your medical reports and your employment history are the most common trigger for insurer queries.
The evidence narrative
Individual documents are not enough — they need to tell a coherent story from when you first became unwell through to your current inability to work. A disjointed collection of records leaves gaps that the insurer will explore. A connected, chronological narrative leaves no questions unanswered.
Our free eligibility check is the first step in understanding what your specific claim will need.