FINANCE INFORMATION 

For people with a chronic health condition - especially kidney disease

See also our Families and Carers  and Home Dialysis areas for financial subsidies available

Do you need financial support, physical or emotional assistance?
You may be able to claim disability benefits from your Super or Insurance. Our fact sheets below may help answer questions. 
Also refer to: Medicare - Your Health

Early access to preserved superannuation
You may be able to access your preserved superannuation If you have a chronic disease, especially CKD are on dialysis and are under financial stress, under some circumstances:

• if you have been on Centrelink payments for at least six months and can't pay living expenses (up to $10,000 per annum)
• if you're over retirement age (55-60) and on Centrelink payments for nine months (all your super)
• if you need money to pay for palliative care, funeral expenses, modifications to your home or car, or medical and transport expenses for treatment outside the public health system, for you or a dependant
• if you need funds to cover loan repayments to prevent the sale of your home (up to three months repayments plus 12 months interest)
• if you are permanently incapacitated for work (you can get all of your Super)
• if the preserved amount is up to $200
• if you are a temporary resident and permanently leave Australia (you can get all of your Super)

Total and permanent disability benefits
To get a TPD lump sum you need to prove you can not return to your usual job, or other suitable work that fits your education, training or experience. You don't have to be unfit for any work at all e.g. if you have only ever done manual work and can't do this work now, it won't matter if doctors say you could do office work. If you lose the use of your arms, legs or eyes, you may qualify for a TPD benefit even if you can still work. There is a six month qualifying period, but this can be reduced. Many people with disability will qualify for a TPD benefit, as will many on disability support pensions.

What are superannuation disability benefits?
Most superannuation policies include disability benefits. Superannuation disability benefits are total and permanent disability (TPD) lump sums, or disability pensions, or both. They are usually insurance benefits that 'top up' the contributions in your fund if you have to stop work.

It's important to get advice from experts
Disability claims can be complicated and take time, but it's important you find out about your rights. There are also time limits for appeals to the courts. It's important to get help from an experienced lawyer before making a claim or appeal.

Free Super and Insurance Advice Service -  for people with kidney disease and others with chronic conditions. Fact Sheets below are only a general guide to legal, superannuation and financial issues and not a substitute for professional advice. Kidney Health Australia acknowledges contributions of John Berrill from Maurice Blackburn Lawyers developing this information.
Call 1800 810 812 - Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - www.mauriceblackburn.com.au

AUSTRALIAN FAMILY AND CARER FINANCE AND SUPPORT SERVICES