Can I work part-time and still claim TPD insurance?

Generally, if you're working part-time or in any capacity, it becomes very difficult to claim TPD insurance because the policy requires you to be totally and permanently unable to work. The definition of 'total' disability means you cannot perform the duties of your occupation (Own Occupation) or any suitable occupation (Any Occupation). If you're successfully working part-time, insurers will argue you're not 'totally' disabled. However, there are some nuanced situations. If you attempted to return to work part-time but couldn't sustain it due to your disability, and your medical evidence supports this, you may still qualify. Some policies have specific provisions allowing limited work trials during rehabilitation without affecting your claim. If you're doing minimal volunteer work or attempting work at a significantly reduced capacity while still primarily unable to work, this might not automatically disqualify you, but it creates significant challenges. The key is the medical evidence - if specialists confirm you cannot sustain any meaningful employment despite attempted part-time work, you might succeed. However, insurers scrutinize these claims heavily, often conducting surveillance. It's crucial to discuss any return-to-work attempts with your treating doctors and document how it demonstrates your ongoing disability rather than recovery.