How To Pay Your Dental Treatments With Super Fund
Yes, it is possible to use your superannuation (super) funds to pay for medical and dental treatments through a program called ‘Compassionate Release of Superannuation,’ which is arranged with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This option can be helpful for individuals who cannot afford necessary medical or dental expenses and do not qualify for treatment in the public health system.
While each superannuation fund has its own set of rules, most offer an early access option that allows you to withdraw a lump sum from your superannuation to cover out-of-pocket expenses for dental treatments. This benefit extends not only to the members themselves but also to their family members.
Eligibility Requirements for Early Release of Super Funds
Anyone who meets the following criteria is generally eligible to use their superannuation funds for dental treatments:
1 – Severe dental condition: You must have a severe dental condition that requires treatment or care. This could include procedures such as oral surgery, orthodontic work, or other necessary dental interventions.
2 – Affordability constraints: You should demonstrate that you do not have sufficient financial resources to cover the out-of-pocket expenses associated with the dental treatment you require.
3 – Ineligibility for public health system: If you are unable to access the necessary dental treatment through the public health system, whether due to lengthy waiting periods or specific eligibility criteria, you may be eligible for compassionate release of superannuation.
4 – Compliance with superannuation fund rules: Each superannuation fund may have its own specific rules and provisions regarding the early release of superannuation funds for dental treatments. You need to comply with the guidelines established by your particular fund.
It’s important to note that while these are general eligibility criteria, the specific rules and requirements may vary depending on your superannuation fund. It’s recommended to contact your fund or seek advice from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for accurate and up-to-date information tailored to your situation.
How to prove your eligibility?
To be eligible for early release, you need to provide certification (proof) from either:
- Two dental practitioners – one must be a specialist
- A general practitioner (GP) and a dental practitioner or dental specialist
What dental treatments and procedures are covered?
Under the early release of super, various dental treatments and services can be covered. These may include, but are not limited to:
- Dental implants
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Orthodontic treatments (braces or clear aligners)
- Root canal treatments
- Periodontics treatments
- Oral and maxillofacial (O&M) surgeries
The specific treatment you can receive depends on whether it is necessary to relieve acute or chronic dental pain. Before applying for early access, it’s important to consult with our specialist dentist. They will provide the required evidence to support your case and confirm the need for the recommended treatment.
Some Of Our Dental Treatments
How much of my super can I withdraw for dental work?
Essentially, there is no predetermined cap or restriction on the amount you can withdraw. You are limited only by the cost of the dental treatments you require and the balance available in your superannuation account.
It’s important to consider your individual circumstances and consult with your superannuation fund or seek guidance from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for precise information tailored to your situation.
What is next?
If you require dental treatments and need assistance accessing your superannuation funds, we are here to help. The first step is to consult with our experienced dental practitioner who will assess your dental health and determine the necessary steps to alleviate your chronic or acute dental pain.
Our dedicated specialist dentist will guide you through the process of applying for early release of your superannuation and also will provide the required documentation that needs to be submitted to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for consideration.
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Our Service Area
Wide Bay Central Dental is located in Pialba the heart of Hervey Bay QLD 4655. Our dentists offer same-day emergency appointments and repair cracked and chipped teeth for patients from all over Hervey Bay and Fraser Coast QLD including, Pialba, Scarness, Urrawen, Torquay, Urangan, Kawungan, Howard, Childers, Point Vernon, Eli Waters, Wondunna, Nikenbah, Dundowran, Dundowran Beach and Maryborough.