This article is to update you on my prior articles on SuperStream available at: SuperStream — latest developments Superannuation funds All regulated superannuation funds must generally have an electronic service address (‘ESA’) to receive contributions, rollovers and data in accordance with SuperStream. Broadly, SuperStream refers to the payment and data standards that superannuation funds must [read more]
The United Kingdom (‘UK’) tax authority, HM Revenue & Customs (‘HMRC’), has recently notified superannuation funds in Australia (including SMSFs) that are registered as Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) of new UK regulations that apply from 6 April 2015. Broadly, the new UK regulations require, among other things, that the fund rules do not [read more]
There are numerous pitfalls that can upset a binding death benefit nomination (‘BDBN’) and render it invalid. To help navigate this difficult terrain, we examine the major risks to be identified, managed or avoided. Essentially, a BDBN is a direction made by a member to the superannuation fund trustee requiring the trustee to pay the [read more]
There is often a last minute or second panic to ensure a contribution is made prior to each 30 June. Unless a contribution is made by 30 June a deduction may be denied or the contribution may count towards the next financial year’s contribution caps. This may result in excess contributions or other issues. Also, [read more]
A recent decision Re Trustee for the Payne Superannuation Fund and FCT [2015] AATA 58 examines how the ATO are examining whether SMSFs are appropriately carrying forward tax losses and apportioning expenses when they are partly in pension mode. Prior to analysing the implications of this decision, we will first examine a general overview of [read more]
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]
Sometimes SMSFs are referred to as family superannuation funds due to the ability to have mum, dad and two children as members in the fund. However, is this actually a good idea? What happens if there is a fight in the SMSF between parents and children? This article considers the hidden implications of having children [read more]
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]
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]
I will be once again returning to the University of Melbourne to impart some of the knowledge I have gained in the 30+ years working in the fields of superannuation and tax. Having presented at the University of Melbourne previously, it is great to have the chance to go back and present on how the [read more]
