Q: I have been back in the UK from Australia for the last 3 years because of health problems. I am an Australian citizen as I emigrated from the UK in 1997. I have had two spinal operations and a heart attack three months ago at the age of 39. I have been on goverment benefits and disability living allowance, and because of my disability I can no longer return to Australia. What will happen to my super? Will I be able to get it early or will I have to wait until I am 60, as my parents are having to look after me I am struggling financially.
I’m sorry to read about your situation. I suggest you check with your super fund to see whether you have any permanent disability insurance cover with your super account, and whether your condition is covered.
Even if you don’t, if an individual satisfies the definition of permanent disability, they may be able to access their super benefits if two doctors declare they are pemanently disabled – again check with your super fund.
You may also be able to access your super benefits under
The following SuperGuide articles may also assist you:
- Accessing super early: 12 legal reasons to cash your super
- Accessing super early: Serious illness or surgery
- Accessing super early: Unemployed and in financial hardship
I am 53 yrs of age and I am being discharged from the Defence force due to an illness I can calim my commutation I am retiring permenently from the work force due to the complications with my illness am I able to also draw my productivity benifit as well as I will need all of this to purchase a home.