SMSFs: Stats

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has released its June 2017 quarterly SMSF statistical report detailing key SMSF figures. As of June 2017, the number of SMSFs increased to 596,516. The number of SMSF members in Australia is 1,124,453. The estimated value of total Australian and overseas SMSF assets is $696.7 billion. The number of annual…

SMSF: Capital vs revenue expenses

Self-managed super funds (SMSFs) have access to a range of tax deductions for expenses incurred. Whether the expenses are capital in nature or are considered as revenue will affect eligibility for claiming such deductions. The Tax Office considers an expense that is incurred in establishing or making enduring changes to a super fund’s structure or…

ATO to focus on cash-only businesses

To protect honest, compliant Australian businesses, the Australian Taxation Office has placed a strong emphasis on targeting the cash and hidden economy. The ATO is visiting businesses that deal predominantly in cash, with a focus on those that: Fail to meet super or employer obligations, and that fail to register for GST or lodge activity…

Assistance for new business owners

The ATO has established the ‘Business Assistance Program’ to help new business owners understand their tax obligations associated with running a business. Small businesses that have recently registered for an ABN, registered for GST or likely to register for GST in the near future and have a turnover of less than $2 million a year…

Super co-contributions

Individuals may be eligible for a Government super co-contribution. A Government co-contribution means the Government adds to your super. You may be eligible for the super co-contribution, low-income super contribution (LISC) from the 2012-13 to 2016-17 financial years, or low-income super tax offset (LISTO) from 1 July 2017. Super co-contribution The Government will make a…

Selling your home and CGT

When it comes time to sell your home, you may be wondering if you will need to pay capital gains tax (CGT). Generally, if you live in the home you are selling you will not have to pay CGT under the main residence exemption. The ATO considers a dwelling as your main residence if: –…

Splitting super

When partners in an SMSF separate, there are specific legal and tax implications that should be considered. It is possible to split super benefits, i.e., transfer assets, such as property, from one super fund into another and roll money over to another fund; however, trustees need to keep the following in mind: Separating couples need…

Protecting honest businesses

In its effort to facilitate a fair business environment, the ATO has offered continued support for honest businesses. With an estimated $40 billion lost to the hidden economy, the need for strong diligence and continued governance over Australian businesses is essential. The Black Economy Taskforce that was established in May 2017 and various trends have…