Estate planning is more than just having a will. It is about ensuring that a person’s estate is passed on to their beneficiaries in the most tax-effective and financially efficient way possible when they are gone. Getting early advice on setting up an estate plan can help you to achieve peace of mind in knowing…
While the hustle and bustle of operating and managing a business can occupy your mind, it’s important not to forget your superannuation obligations to your employees. Those who fail to meet their super obligations risk facing severe and even damaging liabilities, penalties and even potential imprisonment. Are you aware of your obligations? Employees (after entering…
Compensation is usually paid out due to a work-related injury or illness, injuries received in a car accident or injuries received because of the negligence or fault of another person. If a super contribution arises from a personal injury payment or a structured settlement (from a compensation payout), you may be able to exclude all…
Have you ever wondered what happens to superannuation when someone claims bankruptcy? Bankruptcy is a legal process that can be commenced when you are declared unable to pay your debts. It is a process that can release you from most debts, provide relief and allow you to make a fresh start. However, bankruptcy is not…
Do you trust that your employer is paying you the right amount of superannuation just because it says so on your payslip? Every year, thousands of employers fail to pay their staff the correct amount of superannuation, costing those workers billions of dollars every year. In many instances, it’s an honest mistake and easily rectified.…
The superannuation gender gap has been a subject of serious concern for at least half of Australia’s population. Women are more likely to have significantly less money saved for their retirement, less assets and far less super than men, putting them in a place of greater financial stress and concern. For example, a woman in…
Since superannuation contributions come in several forms, SMSF members would be wise to understand what contributions are available and how they might impact them regarding the contribution limits. The ATO considers a ‘contribution’ as anything of value that increases the capital of a superannuation fund provided by a person whose purpose is to benefit one…
In some circumstances, superannuation contributions can be claimed on your tax return if made to a super fund or retirement savings account. However, these circumstances are limited and may require professional advice to maximise the benefits. Superannuation contributions paid by your employers directly to your super fund from your before-income tax cannot be claimed. These…
For self-employed individuals, superannuation may become a neglected aspect of your payroll to yourself. It is not a requirement for self-employed individuals to pay themselves it (though it is strongly recommended). To prevent losing out on the compounding interest of superannuation (and a potentially boosted financial situation in your retirement), paying superannuation contributions now can…
There’s been a lot of buzz around superannuation since the 2023-24 Federal Budget was announced. One such buzz involves the concept of ‘payday super’. Payday super has been introduced by the government to avoid the discrepancies that those in lower-paid, casual and insecure work often encounter with their superannuation compared to others in more secure…