Many older Australians assume they're too old for a TPD claim — but this isn't necessarily true. TPD insurance typically has an expiry age (commonly 65 or 70), meaning if you become permanently unable to work before that age while cover is active, you can still claim.
Age limits on TPD cover
Most super fund TPD policies expire at age 65 or 70. This means:
- If you became unable to work at age 62 while still covered, you can lodge a claim
- If your cover expired at 65 and you became unable to work at 67, you generally cannot claim the TPD insurance (though you may be able to access super on other grounds)
Check your policy's expiry age in your fund's product disclosure statement or annual statement.
Preserving age and super access
At age 60 and over, many Australians can also access their super balance under regular retirement or transition-to-retirement rules — regardless of disability. However, TPD insurance provides additional cover on top of your super balance, so both may be worth pursuing.
Act before cover expires
If you're approaching the cover expiry age and have a condition that's been preventing you from working, don't delay. Check your position with a free eligibility check.