Assistance Needed – ATO‑Held Super & Permanent Incapacity Access (Overseas NZ Citizen)

 Author: RachelATO(Community Moderator)Community Moderator

27 Mar 2026

Hi @GINGERPRIMATE,

The process to claim super via permanent incapacity can seem complex, so I'll give you information for each of your questions.

Here’s how you can check if we hold your super and what steps to take to access it.

Check if we hold super in your name

The fastest way to check is using our online services (even from overseas). If you have a myGov account and are linked to the ATO, you can go to Super > Fund details and look for entries marked ‘ATO‑held super’.

Otherwise, you could either phone our super line and speak to us directly or download and complete this form - Searching for lost and unclaimed super (NAT 2476). 

What's the process to apply for early release of super due to permanent incapacity?

Permanent incapacity is a ‘fund‑assessed’ condition of release. So, if your super is held by us, you’d need to transfer it to a super fund first. We can’t assess or approve permanent incapacity claims.

Once the money is in a super fund, you can apply for early release due to permanent incapacity. They’ll ask for:

• medical evidence (usually reports from two doctors, one a specialist)
• proof that you're unlikely to ever work again.

Your New Zealand citizenship and overseas residence won’t stop you from applying.

Is the claim made through the ATO or through a super fund?

The balance must be rolled back to a super fund first. The process is that if we hold the money, we can release it to a super fund at your request. Then the super fund assesses and approves the permanent incapacity claim.

Where can I find forms, instructions, and ID requirements?

Work through our Lost Super page to find forms and instructions. After the transfer, the super fund will give you:

• claim forms
• medical certificate requirements
• ID rules for overseas applicants.

Most funds accept certified copies of UK ID documents, but it's worth giving them a call first to understand their processes.

Reply0 likes

• Report as inappropriate