Contractors who run their own business and sell their services to others have different obligations to their super than what employees in a business may usually have. A contractor (also known as an independent contractor, a subcontractor, or a subbie) who is paid wholly or principally for their labour is considered to be an employee…
Have you recently purchased life insurance? The type of cover, deductibility of premiums and treatment of claims make life insurance a complex topic for tax. It’s a topic that individuals and businesses alike seek assistance from accountants. The deductibility of premiums and treatment of claims payouts can be a complex, nuanced topic. The opportunities and…
The coming new year of 2023 may be bringing you a fresh start regarding your business adventures. You may even be looking to start your next adventure on your own terms. Why not make the coming year your year to start a business? Understandably, you may have concerns and trepidation about the process (particularly amidst…
Downsizing during retirement can help you reduce costs and put some more money in your pocket so that you feel more secure about your finances during retirement. Downsizing by selling your property has advantages and disadvantages, which you should evaluate before making this decision. Advantages Increased cash flow: Downsizing should reduce your mortgage payments and…
Australians can experience a range of natural disasters, such as floods, bushfires, tropical cyclones, severe storms and even earthquakes. These events can cause devastation to communities and financial hardship for individuals and businesses. While FBT may not be at the forefront of your mind when helping your employees after an emergency, it can result in…
Setting the right salary level for your employees is essential to finding the right people to help you run your business. However, it can be difficult to determine the most appropriate level based on your business and what it can afford while also being attractive to prospective employees. When setting pay levels, particularly for advertising…
When it comes to investing, there is always a certain amount of risk involved. The key to a great investment strategy is to discern how much risk you are willing to take. The risk profile of your superannuation investment strategy should be determined by combining your financial goals and the time frame in which you…
At the end of the year, you may look for extrinsic ways to thank your hardworking employees or faithful customers/clients. A work Christmas/end-of-year party may be a method employed by many businesses to demonstrate their gratitude towards staff, but the expense can be a deciding factor. Christmas/holiday parties are regarded as “entertainment” expenditures, which means…
One of the greatest complaints small employers have is how difficult it is to find good employees. But there’s one place they often fail to search for new job applicants – the families and friends of their best employees. After all, current employees who have great work attitudes probably have brothers and sisters with great…
You must make a binding death benefit nomination to maintain control and certainty over who will inherit your superannuation assets after you pass away. Contrary to what you may think, your will does not automatically control the payment of your death benefits. If you do not make a binding death benefit nomination, your super trustee…