Home / Super booster / Super contributions / How do tax-deductible superannuation contributions work?

How do tax-deductible superannuation contributions work?

If you’ve got cash to spare and would like to boost your retirement savings, then making a tax-deductible super contribution is a great way to get the maximum bang for your buck.

Yes, that’s right. You can boost your super and get a tax deduction to sweeten the deal. But as with everything to do with super, there are rules and limits to the government’s generosity.

For starters, you can’t claim a tax deduction for super contributions your employer makes on your behalf. This includes your employer’s compulsory Super Guarantee and any reportable contributions above this amount, including any salary-sacrifice arrangements you may have.

You also can’t claim deductions for rollover payments from another fund, including foreign funds.

So what are tax-deductible super contributions?

Tax-deductible super contributions are contributions you make from your after-tax income for which you claim a tax deduction. This income may be from a variety of sources such as your take-home pay, savings, an inheritance or from the sale of assets.

Making a personal tax-deductible contribution can be a great way to offset capital gains you make on assets held outside super.

Whatever the source, you can make a payment to your super fund from your bank account either as a one-off payment or a periodic direct debit.

Join SuperGuide to continue

The sooner you sort out your super, the better off you’ll be

Delaying means missing out on years of tax savings, compounding growth, and the benefits of being in a top-performing fund — starting earlier puts you ahead
  • Smart contribution and tax strategies explained in plain English
  • Independent expert guides you can trust
  • Guidance to choose top funds and smarter investment options
  • Regular updates so you never miss important rule changes

See what’s included

About the author

Related topics,

IMPORTANT: All information on SuperGuide is general in nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether any information on SuperGuide is appropriate to you before acting on it. If SuperGuide refers to a financial product you should obtain the relevant product disclosure statement (PDS) or seek personal financial advice before making any investment decisions. Comments provided by readers that may include information relating to tax, superannuation or other rules cannot be relied upon as advice. SuperGuide does not verify the information provided within comments from readers. Learn more

© Copyright SuperGuide 2008-25. Copyright for this guide belongs to SuperGuide Pty Ltd, and cannot be reproduced without express and specific consent. Learn more

Leave a Reply