It is not a standard end of financial year, as there are many items SMSF trustees and super members should check immediately, especially with the changes taking effect from 1 July 2017.
Archive | SMSF Strategies
Why ‘total superannuation balance’ is important for SMSFs
In addition to the $1.6 million transfer balance cap, SMSF members should also understand the concept of ‘total superannuation balance’ to stay within the rules and make the most of contribution opportunities.
Catch-up contributions are a tax planning opportunity
Deferring concessional contributions to a year when an individual’s taxable income is higher by making ‘catch-up’ contributions can create a sizable tax arbitrage between tax paid within the fund and tax paid personally.
Five urban myths about super changes
When changes to regulations are as extensive and complex as the coming 1 July rules, many misconceptions about how they work arise for both advisers and their clients. Here are a few common mistakes.
SMSF investments do not match objectives
Many SMSF trustees are expecting miracles from their portfolio, setting them up defensively to deal with risk while expecting returns over 10% a year. Something’s got to give.
Applying CGT relief for SMSFs and TTR pensions
Despite the confusing and technical nature of the CGT relief rules, it’s important for SMSF trustees and advisers to consider their implications as decisions need to be made prior to 1 July 2017.
Do new rules create incentive for single member SMSFs?
Unless all members of an SMSF or SAF are of the same age and have the same retirement goals, the new super rules look like complicating tax payments when one member is in pension and the other accumulation.
Stop the tinkering and bring on the ideas
ASFA chief calls on baby boomers to redefine retirement, doubts fintech will disrupt, loathes dinner party freakonomics, believes brands work and wants a market full of fresh ideas not policy tinkering.
Super complex: the advice gift keeps on giving
The increasing complexity of super would leave the fathers of Australia’s system wondering what has happened to their brainchild. Advisers and clients are struggling with the complexity before the looming deadlines.
Is super segregation still possible for SMSFs?
In light of the coming superannuation changes, advisers are considering alternative opportunities to retain some of the benefits, although each should be carefully checked.
Size matters for SMSF performance
There is much industry debate on the minimum size to make an SMSF worthwhile, and the range of costs can add up. A recent study of SMSF performance highlights the difference size can make.
Monica’s Q&A on $1.6 million super rules
Monica answers questions on her article on the $1.6 million cap. As she will be unable to answer more questions directly for a while, consider registering for her upcoming webinar.
The SMSF sector by the numbers
The ATO’s annual statistics on superannuation assets shows that SMSFs continue to grow but not as quickly as institutional funds, as the older age demographics of SMSF retirees made less net contributions.
