Superannuation Release Eligibility

In limited circumstances, the Australian Taxation Office may approve the early release of superannuation on compassionate grounds to help pay for eligible dental treatment. Eligibility is determined under ATO criteria and depends on the patient’s individual circumstances and the treatment required. For medical treatment, the ATO requires the treatment to be necessary to treat a life-threatening illness or injury, alleviate acute or chronic pain, or alleviate an acute or chronic mental illness. The treatment must also not be readily available through the public health system. Cosmetic treatment that does not meet the relevant medical-treatment criteria is generally not eligible. Where clinically appropriate, your dentist may provide supporting clinical information or reports required for an application. For dental treatment, the ATO states that the required certification may be provided by two separate dental practitioners, or by a medical practitioner and a dental practitioner. Accessing superannuation early can have important financial implications. Brisbane Smiles does not provide financial advice or guarantee that an application will be approved. Patients considering early access to superannuation should review the ATO requirements and consider obtaining independent financial advice before making a decision. AHPRA specifically advises dentists not to encourage patients to access superannuation for treatment and to encourage patients to seek independent financial advice.