Denied TPD Claim? Here’s How We Can Help You Appeal

Being told your TPD (Total and Permanent Disability) claim has been rejected can feel like the rug’s been pulled out from under you, especially when you’re already dealing with life-changing illness or injury. But don’t give up. Many claims are denied not because they’re invalid, but because of missing evidence, technical errors, or insurers dragging their feet.

In this guide, we answer the most common questions about what to do when your TPD claim is denied, including how to appeal, what documents you need, and why legal advice can make all the difference.

At Gordon Legal, we’re not afraid to take on insurers and super funds. We stand with everyday Australians to make sure your story is heard and your rights are upheld.

Is there a time limit to contest a rejected TPD claim?

Yes, strict time limits apply depending on the appeals process you use:

• AFCA (Australian Financial Complaints Authority): 2 years from the date of denial
• Legal action through the courts: Usually 6 years from the date of claim denial (but this can vary)

Act quickly. Missing a deadline could mean losing your right to appeal altogether.

Absolutely, and it’s often the key to turning a rejection into an approval.

You can provide:

• Updated medical reports
• Functional capacity assessments
• Statements from doctors, former employers, or family
• Evidence showing how your condition has worsened
• Further submissions from your legal representatives

Tip: Your original claim may have been rejected due to vague or incomplete documentation. Additional, stronger evidence can make a significant difference.

No, a rejected TPD claim does not reduce your superannuation balance.

• Your TPD insurance sits within your super fund
• The lump sum you were applying for is paid on top of your existing super
• If denied, your normal super remains untouched

However, ongoing insurance premiums may continue to be deducted unless you cancel or switch funds.

Generally, no, a denied TPD claim won’t directly affect your Centrelink payments. However:

• If your TPD claim had been approved, it might have affected your eligibility for some Centrelink benefits
• A denied claim doesn’t usually trigger a reassessment

Still, it’s a good idea to speak to Centrelink or a legal adviser if you’re worried about any overlap.

Yes, you can. You don’t always need to launch a formal appeal—you can also submit new evidence.

You might do this if:

• Your condition has worsened
• You have new medical reports
• You initially misunderstood the claim process
• Your insurer made a factual or procedural error

A lawyer can help you decide whether to appeal the rejection or submit further evidence.

There are several options:

• Internal review through your super fund or insurer
• Complaint to AFCA (free, independent dispute resolution)
• Legal action through the courts

Each pathway has pros and cons. For instance, AFCA is faster and free, but can’t award large amounts. Court action is more powerful, but takes longer and is more formal.

That’s where experienced legal advice becomes critical.

In short? Extremely important.

TPD appeals are complex. A lawyer can:

• Review why your claim was denied
• Help gather stronger evidence
• Handle communication with insurers
• Represent you through AFCA or court
• Increase your chances of success

At Gordon Legal, we don’t just lodge appeals—we go in prepared to win.

To appeal, you’ll need:

• The original claim decision letter
• Your policy documents (to understand the insurer’s definition of TPD)
• All medical evidence submitted so far
• New medical or functional capacity reports
• Personal statements detailing how your condition affects your daily life
• Proof of your previous work history and qualifications

We also recommend creating a timeline of your condition and claim process to help clarify the facts.

The good news? You don’t have to pay upfront legal fees at Gordon Legal, we work on a No Win, No Fee basis for TPD claims.

This means:

• No cost to speak to us and review your case
• If your appeal is successful, fees are paid from the final payout
• If it’s not successful, you don’t pay legal fees

We also ensure you understand any potential costs or risks before you move forward.

Look for a legal team that:

• Specialises in superannuation and insurance law
• Has a track record of winning complex TPD claims
• Offers transparent, No Win No Fee arrangements
• Listens to your story and takes time to explain your options
• Is prepared to challenge big insurers—not just fill out forms

At Gordon Legal, we’re proud to be all that, and more. We’re fierce when we need to be, and we never forget the human at the centre of every case.

If your TPD claim has been denied, you’re not alone, and you’re not powerless.
Thousands of Australians face the same fight every year. With the right evidence, strategy, and legal team in your corner, many rejections can be overturned.

At Gordon Legal, we’ve helped countless clients win the payouts they deserve after being unfairly denied. We know how the system works, and we’re here to make it work for you.

Reach out today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll review your claim, tell you where you stand, and help you take the next step with strength and confidence.