Mental health conditions have ranked as life insurer TAL’s leading cause of claims for the fourth consecutive year.

They accounted for 21% of claims in the year to March 31, followed by cancer (17%) and injuries/fractures (15%).

TAL says it paid more than $4.7 billion in claims benefits in the year. “Living insurance”, including income protection and total and permanent disability cover, made up 74% of payouts.

“Last year, TAL supported more Australians than ever before, offering financial and recovery support when it was most needed.” chief claims officer Georgina Croft said.