How do Income Protection claims differ from lump sum trauma or TPD claims?

Income Protection claims differ fundamentally from lump sum insurance claims (like Trauma or TPD) in several critical ways. IP provides ongoing monthly payments rather than a single lump sum, meaning the claim continues for as long as you remain disabled, up to your benefit period maximum. This requires continuous proof of ongoing disability - you must provide regular updated medical evidence, attend medical examinations, and participate in rehabilitation. Lump sum claims, once assessed and paid, are complete - you receive the money and the claim is closed. IP claims are designed to replace income temporarily during recovery, encouraging and supporting return to work through partial benefit provisions and rehabilitation requirements. Lump sum trauma or TPD claims are for serious, defined events or permanent disability where recovery isn't expected. The claim definitions differ too: IP typically uses 'unable to work in your occupation' definitions, while TPD requires you to meet a permanent disability definition (unable to ever work again), and trauma pays for specific medical events regardless of work capacity. You can potentially claim on multiple policies simultaneously - receiving IP monthly benefits while also having previously received a TPD lump sum, as they cover different circumstances. The ongoing nature of IP claims means they're more actively managed by insurers, with regular reviews and potential disputes about ongoing disability. IP claims are statistically more common but for shorter durations (average 6-12 months), while TPD and trauma claims are less frequent but for more serious, life-changing events. Understanding these differences helps you structure appropriate coverage across different policy types.