What they do not tell you about accessing your super

Well, it's been an interesting day.

I've spoken to my super fund several times in the last couple of months about accessing super on the grounds of financial hardship. The information I was given was that once Centrelink confirmed I was eligible I would be able to lodge a claim.

What I was not told, at any time, was that they will only release enough to cover debts that are currently in default--that if you are foolish enough to borrow money from friends or family to cover expenses such as rego, power, water, rates etc. you will not be able to make a claim. That money suddenly becomes a personal debt rather than a living expense. Even if you can demonstrate that your immediate living expenses are higher than your income, you don't qualify.You actually have to wreck your credit rating and get disconnected from services before there is any chance of getting hold of your money.

So, if you are intending to attempt to access your super in the foreseeable future  do not borrow any money to cover any bills that are overdue until you are certain you are doing the right thing. 

I am furious. I've been escalated up the line of management, all of whom have apologised profusely for the oversight. The calls have been recorded, so there is no question about what information was given to me. We've had a little listen to them to make sure. There is also no redress--it's just too bad. They will improve their service delivery, so I am told. Like hell they will, the parasites.

I'm gong to do the whole letter to my MP thing, but the legislation is the legislation and there is no getting around it. This also applies if you want access on compassionate grounds, you must be in default to the service provider and the bills must be unpaid. 

Of course, you should check with your fund to make sure, but you now have some idea what you should be asking. I suggest you ask some very pointed questions because there is no way they will tell you what you need to know otherwise.