The transfer balance cap has required some large SMSFs to transfer pension money back to accumulation, and the two pools must be treated carefully to maintain the full benefits from superannuation.
Archive | SMSF Strategies
How SMSFs can utilise franking credits under Labor
Labor’s proposal on franking credits is not only facing considerable opposition, but it is also encouraging people to consider future ways to utilise the credits. It is a chance to think deeper about estate planning.
Are retrospective tax policies fair or foul?
One person’s unjust retrospective policy change is another’s overdue and necessary reform. Did people objecting about unfavourable policy retrospectivity complain when they benefitted from a retrospective change?
More detail on the $1.6m Transfer Balance Cap
A reader thought Noel Whittaker’s article last week reported an ‘incredible’ claim, so more detail is provided on the correct documentation and management of Transfer Balance Caps.
7 vital steps to compliance for your SMSF
A significant compliance breach can materially affect the tax effectiveness of your SMSF, so check you are complying with these seven steps and stay on top of the administration and obligations.
When the $1.6m cap is no longer relevant
There has been a massive focus on the maximum allowed in a tax-free pension of $1.6 million, but what happens if your portfolio rises in value and you exceed it? Should you worry about it?
Six advantages of an SMSF
In considering whether setting up an SMSF is the right decision for you, weigh up compliance obligations and cost with the main advantages SMSFs offer over other super funds. The 6 key positives are enumerated here.
Super is worsening for self-funded retirees
Increases in longevity, and the numerous changes to the super system since inception, have mostly worked against self-funded retirees. Meanwhile, politicians and bureaucrats enjoy far superior retirement benefits.
Heed my problems borrowing in my SMSF
Even for this experienced SMSF technical services executive, the tighter rules for borrowing in his SMSF brought some unexpected problems. It’s much harder now than most people realise.
SMSF investment trends show rising diversity
SMSFs are continuing to use the ASX20 as a bargain buy, but are also diversifying into mid caps and international shares via direct investments, ETFs and LICs.
What happens at death of an SMSF member?
By understanding superannuation law and implementing the right structure, SMSF members can ensure their super is passed onto their heirs after death with a minimum of fuss.
SMSFs hit by loss of tax-free status and franking refunds
The 1 July 2017 changes have caused huge shifts in SMSF assets out of pension mode, and Labor’s proposed franking credit refunds policy is a further hit to self-funded retirees.
Cuffelinks articles on Labor’s franking policy
Cuffelinks has published 15 articles related to Labor’s proposed franking policy. In this compendium, each article is summarised and linked to, plus a ‘sample letter’ to his local member from an aggrieved retiree.
The SMSF gaps in the Productivity Commission’s Superannuation Report
APRA and the ATO do not measure fund performance in the same way. The discrepancy can cause SMSF performance to appear worse than it actually is, and better collaboration between regulators is required.
