SMSF Benefits

In relation to self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF), there are some powerful benefits:

Investment Choice
You choose the blend of investments. For example, a SMSF can acquire your business premises and lease the property back to your business, or acquire listed share investments from you and release cash back to the business.

Secure Retirement Income
Your fund can accumulate assets to provide a secure income stream when you’re ready to retire.

Benefits when Health Declines
If you’re incapacitated, there are many options available to access fund benefits, thereby reducing financial concerns at such times.

Protection from Creditors
Bankruptcy laws protect superannuation benefits from creditors (up to their Pension Reasonable Benefit Limit).

Consolidation
Consolidating superannuation accounts of up to four family members can produce a significant investment asset base, enabling you to access wholesale investment rates, invest in property and save on fund administration charges.

Taxation Incentives
Investments held within a complying fund enjoy concessional tax treatment, ensuring maximum retirement benefits are accumulated.

Access to Age Pension
Certain pensions paid from your SMSF may still allow access to Centrelink age pensions from September 2004, while still using your Pension Reasonable Benefit Limit.

Estate Planning
You can control distribution of benefits to your spouse, children and grandchildren in the event of your death.

And if you already have a SMSF:

• You can top-up contributions in a tax-efficient way by salary sacrificing from pre-taxed earnings
• You can make contributions for your spouse
• If you’re a low income earner, the Government will match contributions up to a predetermined limit
• You can invest in a range of investment options within the fund, increasing control over future retirement benefits