Self-managed super funds (SMSFs) that are not well diversified are quite risky investments since they aren’t as protected as they could be against shocks and volatility in the market. Diversification aims to maximise an individual’s return by investing in different asset classes that react differently to the same event. Although it does not guarantee avoiding…
Individuals can minimise capital gains tax (CGT) when selling an investment property where proceeds are contributed to superannuation. Those who sell their property can contribute up to $500,000 as a non-concessional contribution into their superannuation, which means that no tax will be payable. Non-concessional contributions, or after-tax super contributions, are super contributions for which an…
Starting a self-managed super fund (SMSF) may be a good idea for those after more control over investment choices and fund running costs. However, those considering an SMSF need to ask themselves some key questions such as: if they can do a better job investing their super than the trustees of their existing super fund…
The ATO is currently targeting work-related expenses by taking a closer look at unusual deductions and claims that are higher than expected. The Tax Office will be looking for expense claims that are much higher than others who are in the same occupation and will be contacting employers to validate these claims. When claiming work-related…
The ATO has its sight set on individuals participating in an increasing number of aggressive tax avoidance and retirement planning schemes in self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF). The Tax Office has launched Super Scheme Smart, an initiative designed to help inform individuals and advisers about illegal retirement planning schemes. The program is a result of an…
It is vital for those with a self-managed super fund (SMSF) to carry out all the necessary checks before purchasing a property in their SMSF, especially when borrowing is involved. Investment strategyThe SMSF’s investment strategy must be considered. If the purchase of a property will cause the fund’s other investments to be out of alignment,…
The Seniors and Pensioners Tax Offset (SAPTO) is a tax offset for retirees who are at the Service Pension age or the Age Pension age or older. Those who have received SAPTO may be eligible to transfer unused portions of their offset to their spouse. When transferring unused SAPTO, both the receiving individual and their…
There are a number of employee benefits that are exempt from fringe benefits tax (FBT). They include the following work-related items:– portable electronic devices (mobile phones, laptops, tablets, portable printers and GPS navigation receivers)– computer software– protective clothing– briefcases– tools of trade The FBT exemption is limited to items that are primarily for use in…
Refund fraud occurs where tax returns, activity statements and other documents are deliberately falsified in order to claim a tax refund a taxpayer is not entitled to. Fraudulent claims can be lodged by individuals on their own account or third parties on behalf of others. Often, this can involve identity crime, where taxpayer identities are…
The Australian Tax Office has announced that it will be paying close attention to rental property owners during this tax season, especially in areas where excessive interest expenses are claimed and where there is an incorrect apportionment of rental income and expenses between rental property owners. The ATO will also be focusing on those who…