QLD Superannuation Death Benefit After Husband's Suicide

[SarahMc]

Hi. My husband recently suicided at 34years of age. He has 3 superannuation accounts open. I've contacted all 3 of them and he has enough money in each of them to claim for the death benefits and he is well past the 13 month period that they don't pay out on suicide. I have a solicitor lodging all of my claims to take the load off me. She has reassured me that the super funds will pay out on all death benefits.

I am sceptical as it is suicide and I'm expecting the insurance departments to investigate things such as a pre-existing medical condition such as mental illness and find a way out of paying. Have you had experience with a similar case? And what's your professional opinion as to whether or not they have to pay out on the death benefit?

 

[Ivy]

Hi Sarah, it really depends on the contractual terms of the superannuation. If you have a solicitor working for you, then that is the best route you could take in terms of having someone make sure you get what you're entitled to. Good luck and I am sorry that you are facing this awful situation.

 

[Smiley]

Hi Sarah,

I am sorry to hear about the tragic circumstances. As it was suicide, pre-existing illnesses will likey not come into play.

Example of pre existing in a very general sense is:

March 2014 - Diagnoised with cancer

June 2014 - Date joined superannuation Fund

July 2015 - Dies from the cancer that was diagnoised in March 2014.

The cancer was pre existing.

As you state your late husband passed away after the initial exclusion period of 13 months from the date joined superannuation Fund, a death benefit appears applicable.

Good luck