Accessing your super

We’re currently in a limited service period
While we complete our merger, claims will be restricted until 21 November. Paper-based claim forms can be submitted from 1 November and will be processed effective the date we receive your paperwork. If your claim is urgent, please contact us to discuss. Visit our merger hub for further information.

Super is all about saving for your retirement, that’s why the government has set rules about when you can withdraw it

When can you access your super?

Generally, you can access your super when you meet one of the following: 

  • you reach 60 and retire or stop working for an employer 
  • you turn age 65, even if you’re still working

If you turned 60 and still working, you can unlock part of your super through a transition to retirement strategy, find out how.

Accessing your super early

Life doesn't always go to plan, so there are some circumstances when you can access some or all your super early. This includes:

If you are suffering from severe financial hardship you may be able to access your super to help. The maximum amount of withdrawal is $10,000 before tax in any 12 month period. You must be receiving eligible government income support payments for at least 26 continuous weeks and are unable to meet reasonable and immediate living expenses. Other criteria apply, please see the Financial Hardship form for more information.

There are certain situations where you can apply to access your super on compassionate grounds. These could include situations such as your (or a dependant’s) medical treatment costs, modifying your home to accommodate special needs or loan payment to prevent foreclosure of your mortgage or a forced sale of your home. See our Early access to your super fact sheet for a complete list. 

To access super early under compassionate grounds, you must apply directly to the ATO. We recommend contacting them first to see if you’re eligible.
Once the ATO has approved your application, you can make a withdrawal from your account by completing our Withdrawing your super form.

 

If you are diagnosed with a terminal illness or become permanently incapacitated, you may be able to access your super if you meet certain conditions. Call 1800 005 166 for more information.

If you're a temporary Australian resident, you can claim your super when you permanently leave the country. You can claim your account balance as a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP) through the ATO. 
help icon

Need some help?

We understand that applying to access your super isn’t always easy. That’s why we’re here to help. You can call us on 1800 005 166, 8am-7pm weekdays (AET)

Call now
education hub education hub

Get super educated

Our education hub can help take your financial knowledge to the next level. 

financial advice financial advice

Life's an adventure. We'll make sure you're ready for it.

With your CareSuper membership, you have access to a range of advice options. Chat to our financial experts to build the future you want.