Do I Really Need Total & Permanent Disability (TPD) Cover?

Written By Tim Grapiglia

Have you ever thought about what would happen if you became permanently disabled?

Perth Financial Planner Tim Grapiglia explains TPD Cover and why it matters - to help you determine if it is something you need.

1. What is TPD Cover?

Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance pays a lump sum if you become permanently disabled and are unable to ever work again (definitions vary between “own occupation” and “any occupation”). It’s designed to help you and your family stay afloat financially when life takes a sharp, unexpected turn.

2. Why does it matter?

For families: If you’ve got a mortgage, kids, and everyday bills, losing your income forever isn’t just stressful, it can jeopardise everything you’ve worked for. TPD gives breathing room to pay off debts and fund long-term living costs.

For singles: Even without dependants, a permanent disability can mean ongoing medical bills, rehab costs, or modifications to your home. TPD provides options, not just survival.

3. What does TPD usually cover?

Common uses for a TPD payout:

  • Paying off a home loan or investment property debt

  • Covering future medical treatment and carers

  • Funding children’s education

  • Creating an income stream to replace your lost earnings

4. Questions to ask yourself:

  • Could my partner or family cover the mortgage if I couldn’t work again?

  • Do I have enough in super or savings to cover 20+ years of living costs?

  • Would I want the choice to focus on recovery without financial stress?

5. A quick story

One of my Perth clients was a healthy 38 year old tradie. After a serious accident, he couldn’t go back on the tools. His TPD cover cleared the mortgage and meant his family didn’t have to sell their home. Without it, they’d have been forced to move in with relatives.


Ready to take the next step?

If you’re wondering whether your super’s default TPD is enough, or if you even have it, take 5 minutes today. Open your app, check your cover, and ask yourself: Would this really be enough if I couldn’t work again? If the answer’s no, it’s time for a chat.

General advice only; consider your circumstances before acting.


Written by Tim at EvolvU.

Insurance made simple.
Protection made personal.

Looking into TPD Cover and wondering about Income Protection too?
Check out: Do I Really Need Income Protection?

Tim Grapiglia
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