Watch this video blog post where Aaron discusses his views on the recent talk around changes to superannuation policy, in particular his thoughts about where the Government would be better served to address the issue of equality in tax concessions. Obviously some of these issues aren’t going to be popular with self-funded retirees, but what … Continue reading »
Whilst much of the focus of the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO) has been on the need to find dollars ensure the Labor Government delivers a surplus, the report has delivered some much-awaited news for the superannuation sector the final outcomes of the Commissioner’s views regarding TR 2011/D3, in particular when a pension ceases … Continue reading »
The use of reserves within self-managed super funds have been debated for many years, with statistics generally showing low levels of reserve activity within funds. However, the rise of strategies to deal with contributions, and the payment of death benefits amongst others, has seen a renewed focus amongst specialists to consider their appropriateness for trustee/members. … Continue reading »
I’m pleased to announce the launch of my Top10 SMSF strategies for 2012-13 webinar to be held at 11am AEST, Thursday, 23 August 2012. With more than 410 attendees to last year’s session, this is the most anticipated SMSF webinar for 2012!! In addition to the webinar, all attendees will receive a free copy of … Continue reading »
While the terms “sugar daddy” and “cougar” can conjure up images of Hugh Hefner, Anna Nicole-Smith, Geoffrey Edelsten or Demi Moore (even Stifler’s mom for the American Pie fans!!), there are plenty of real life examples of couples that need to plan for, and deal with, their significant age differences in planning for retirement. It … Continue reading »
There has been a significant amount of focus on the benefits of reversionary pensions since the ATO released draft tax ruling, TR 2011/D3. The ruling considers the issue of where a pension will cease in the event of death where there is no automatic reversion to a beneficiary. This reversion will only occur where either: … Continue reading »
With the end of the financial year fast approaching, it provides an important time for SMSF trustees to consider a range of year-end planning strategies for their SMSF. The following list provides some ideas, issues, and strategies around contributions, pensions, investments and estate planning that you should be reviewing to maximise the opportunities leading up … Continue reading »
As we approach the end of the financial year, it is important to focus on the various planning opportunities that are available for members of self-managed super funds. As both trustees and the broader SMSF industry place a greater focus on the quality advice, being able to effectively deliver strategies in the lead up to … Continue reading »
The impact of ATO draft tax ruling, TR 2011/D3 has sparked a significant amount of interest in how income streams are structured for SMSF members, in particular with those who have not originally included a tax dependant reversionary beneficiary in the original terms & conditions of the pension. The draft ruling states that a pension will cease … Continue reading »
I had an interesting question raised via a financial adviser last week regarding a death benefit pension being paid to a member under age 55 who wished to transfer this to a SMSF. I thought I would share with you the important implications of this decision. John (52) passed away and is survived by Jane … Continue reading »