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Another BDBN fails due to poor SMSF documents

Another BDBN fails due to poor SMSF documents

Munro v Munro [2015] QSC 61 is the latest case involving a binding death benefit nomination (‘BDBN’) that was held not to be binding. This case is a very important decision as it confirms that BDBNs for self managed superannuation funds (‘SMSF’) can last indefinitely. The facts Mr Barrie Munro practised as a solicitor during [read more]

Temporary incapacity can provide welcome relief

Temporary incapacity can provide welcome relief

Most of us are aware that superannuation benefits can be paid out on retirement (ie, after attaining your preservation age), as well as on suffering permanent incapacity and on death. However, many are not aware that our super savings can also provide some welcome relief on suffering temporary incapacity. Those that suffer temporary incapacity can [read more]

Recent case provides valuable insights for SMSFs

Recent case provides valuable insights for SMSFs

The recent decision of Deputy Commissioner of Taxation v Lyons [2014] FCA 1353 provides various insights for self managed superannuation fund trustees, as explained in this article. Facts of decision On 6 June 2008, the Lyons Family Superannuation Fund (‘Fund’) was registered as a self managed superannuation fund. At all relevant times, Mr Lyons and [read more]

Practical-SMSF-tips

Practical SMSF tips

In this article I seek to set out some practical tips for setting up SMSFs. Less is more When naming an SMSF, there are basically no restrictions on what name you can choose. As a guiding rule though, in my opinion, the shorter the name, the better. For example, it is perfectly allowable for an [read more]

ATO disqualifies an increasing number of SMSF trustees with adverse consequences

ATO disqualifies an increasing number of SMSF trustees with adverse consequences

The Commissioner of Taxation’s recently released annual report for 2013-14 discloses an alarming increase in the number of self managed superannuation fund (‘SMSF’) trustees (and directors of SMSF trustee companies) that are being declared disqualified persons by the ATO. The figures below on the ATO’s other compliance activities are not remarkable. This other activity includes [read more]

SMSF penalties and sole purpose test illuminated by the Federal Court

SMSF penalties and sole purpose test illuminated by the Federal Court

Two mysteries that loom large on the SMSF landscape are the issues of SMSF penalties and the sole purpose test. However, a recent Federal Court case sheds some light on the uncertainties in these areas. Facts of the case The decision in Deputy Commissioner of Taxation (Superannuation) v Graham Family Superannuation Pty Limited [2014] FCA [read more]