SMSF

Self-managed super funds have surged in popularity since changes such as Simplified Super were introduced in 2007. Individuals wanting to take control of their retirement future contributed to the almost $505 billion held in SMSF in Australia by mid 2013. The introduction of Super Choice meant that employees were given the freedom to choose where their employer contributes their super retirement savings. By virtue of economies of scale, the SMSF entry point became attainable to the masses, and the administrative, audit and accounting cost is an increasingly affordable option, making SMSF attractive to a much wider audience.

Within the next two years it is likely that a million Australians will have opted to manage their own super. Accountants and financial planners offering online SMSF are best placed to capitalise on this opportunity. Contact us now to find out how you can be part of the SMSF success story.

By bringing together good management, appropriate set-up and the best online SMSF software options, individuals can enjoy many advantages including:

Complete control over superannuation assets

SMSF trustees can control and manage their super fund assets the way they want to. Subject to certain legislative restrictions and the fund’s trust deed, SMSF trustees can make their own investment decisions. This can include a diverse range of investments, ranging from direct property to shares and managed funds.

Cost effectiveness

The administrative burden of SMSF has reduced dramatically. Previously, public-offer funds provided members with a cheaper administration alternative but thanks largely to improvements in technology and legislation, the cost gap is now minimal. Greater economy of scale puts the SMSF market entry point within reach, with compliance both affordable and attainable.

Flexibility

With the right choice of web-based SMSF administration and real-time information, SMSF trustees can change the balance of investments in their investment portfolio rapidly, based on current economic and market conditions. SMSFs allow trustees to be proactive rather than reactive with their investment decisions to better manage their investment portfolio.

Tax effectiveness

Superannuation remains one of the most tax effective investment and wealth creation vehicles for Australians. SMSF income and capital returns are taxed at no more than 15%, with the possibility to reduce this further through franking credits from investments in listed Australian shares that pay franked dividends. Property trusts can also provide deferred income advantages through depreciation write-off costs.

Is SMSF Right for You?

Everyone knows that planning ahead for retirement is important, and that SMSF is an option. However, many Australians do not understand exactly what this choice is, and therefore make other choices for their retirement plans. However, this is a viable option for many and will give you massive control over your future.

The Self Managed Super Fund is a fund where one to four folks work together in order to operate a superannuation trust. Rather than other types of superfunds, these allow the members to cater choices to their needs. As the collective grows, personal desires lose ground, which cannot happen with the SMSF.

Two trustee options are available, the individual and corporate. With the former, you will need at least two trustees whereas the latter allows for a simplified business structure and ease of operations. However, you should look into both to see which is best for your situation.

There are multiple rules regarding operation of your Self Managed Super Fund, including extensive regulation by the Australian Taxation Office.

The operation of the superfund will require a significant investment both during establishment and for maintenance. Make sure that you calculate that into your plans. Everyone in your group should have the expertise to make sound investment choices or the willingness to allow others to do so. The responsibility is shared by all trustees regarding choices made.

However, advisers are often utilized by those establishing an SMSF to ensure that all paperwork is in legal compliance. An accountant can help ensure that you maximize the benefits associated with the trust and minimize the expenses, while remaining within the law.

If you are investment savvy and want to take control over your future, this retirement planning opportunity might be the best choice for you to make now!

 

The growth of SMSF

SMSF growth

In Jun 2013, the ATO recorded more than 509,000 SMSFs holding almost $505 billion in assets. Recent ATO statistics indicate that number continues to grow.

Funds held

12% of Australia’s superannuation was held in SMSFs in 1998, compared to 32% today, with more and more Australians recognising the opportunity to manage their own financial future.

More super

SMSF trustees now control about a third of all superannuation money held by Australians. Ten years ago, only 10% of all superannuation money was invested in SMSFs.

More assets

The SMSF sector now holds the greatest proportion of superannuation assets – approximately $505 billion of a market now worth over $1.62 trillion.