The decision about when to retire is rarely made overnight. It’s a major life event and deserves careful thought and planning. Finances play a big part, but so do your health, your partner’s circumstances and whether you still enjoy your work or are itching to leave.
Set out below are all SuperGuide articles that relate to Superannuation Q and As.
What age can I access my super (Preservation Age)?
There are a series of hurdles you need to clear before you can access your super. The first is your age.
Retirement cost of living: How much does a comfortable lifestyle cost?
Knowing what and where you will spend will make retirement planning much easier, and help you avoid retirees’ biggest fear: outliving their savings.
Selecting your super fund: Can I make the choice?
Uncertain about whether or not you can choose your own super fund? Check out our simple guide to the current fund choice rules.
How does SAPTO work? (Senior Australians and Pensioners Tax Offset)
The Senior Australians and Pensioners Tax Offset (SAPTO) won’t shower you in riches. But depending on your age, relationship status and income, it could provide a handy tax offset of up to $2,230.
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What super contributions are best for me?
Working out the best mix of super contributions to grow your nest egg can be confusing. Here are some simple case studies to help show you the impact for Aussies of different ages, incomes and work situations.
When can I access my super? All conditions of release explained
To legally access your super in Australia you must satisfy a condition of release. Different conditions of release have different payment conditions and tax implications.
What are the different types of super funds?
Whatever your circumstances, it’s important to canvass all your options before you make your final selection. It’s also worth remembering that your choice of fund is not a life sentence. If you are unhappy with your fund for whatever reason, you are free to switch funds provided you have choice.
What concession cards are available for Seniors and Pensioners?
There are a range of concession cards that Australian seniors and pensioners may be eligible for. Depending on the card, you may be entitled to cheaper medicines and discounts on services such as public transport, council rates and power bills.
Salary sacrifice and super: How does it work?
From 1 January 2020, your salary sacrificed super contributions can’t be used by your employer to reduce their SG payment obligations, regardless of the amount you elect to salary sacrifice.
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Retirement age calculator: When can you access your super or the Age Pension?
Although there is no ‘retirement age’ in Australia, there are two ages that are important to know for planning your retirement…
What are average super fund fees?
An easy way to determine if you believe your super fund is good value, is to assess the cost of your super fund against the average costs for the different types of super funds available.
Total Superannuation Balance: When it applies and what is included
The concept of total superannuation balance, or TSB, was introduced on 1 July 2017 as a means to measure your total superannuation interests at any point in time. It is used to determine eligibility for a number of new superannuation measures – such as the ability to carry forward unused concessional contribution caps.
What are unrestricted and restricted non-preserved super benefits?
Non-preserved super benefits can be either unrestricted or restricted. Unrestricted non-preserved benefits are the most common type. You will have these benefits if you are a member of a super fund and have satisfied a condition of release. If you do, you’ll be able to access your super on demand as either a lump sum or a pension.
Can I access my super if I retire overseas?
Question: I’m an Australian citizen and want to retire in Italy when I’m 52. Can I access my super because I don’t plan on working again in Australia?