Saving a deposit to buy your first home is a tough task, and purchasing an affordable first home can be an even greater challenge. The First Home Super Saver (FHSS) Scheme developed by the Australian Government is one solution, but it’s not for everyone. To help you get your head around whether or not the FHSS Scheme ... Read more
How to plan for your retirement
Some of us dream about the day we can finally stop work and do all the things we never have time for. The chance for extended travel without having to race back to work, to pursue hobbies, make a sea or treechange or spend time with the grandkids. Some love their work and want to keep contributing as long as ... Read more
Making downsizer super contributions: 10 things you need to know
Once you reach age 65, you often find yourself wanting a smaller home or one more suited to your empty-nest requirements. For some retirees, selling the family home can also be a great way to release built-up equity and make an extra contribution to their super account. Under the downsizer contribution rules, your ... Read more
10 key super fund fees: What are they and why am I paying them?
Nobody likes paying fees, particularly when you can’t see what you’re paying for. So when it comes to your super fund, it’s worth learning a bit more about the fees you’re paying and why. Like most things in the super industry, the fees you pay depend on the type of super fund you are a member of, and how you decide to ... Read more
10 ways myGov can help you master your super
Knowing how much you have in your super account and if your employer has been making regular contributions are important pieces of information when it comes to managing your financial affairs. That’s now much easier to do thanks to upgrades to the ATO’s online services and the government’s myGov portal. By linking your ... Read more
Superannuation Guarantee rules for employers
If there’s one thing guaranteed to have employers pulling their hair out, it’s red tape. Unfortunately, your obligation to pay super to employees comes wrapped in red tape and slip-ups can be costly. So what are the rules? The Superannuation Guarantee (SG) is the official term for compulsory super contributions made by ... Read more
Super fees and returns calculator
Hands up if you know what fees your super fund charges? No idea? You’re not alone. Most super fund members are aware that being in a fund with superior investment performance will mean a bigger retirement balance. One of the key findings of the Productivity Commission report on super was the negative effect being in a ... Read more
10 points to check on your annual super fund statement
When the statement for your super account appears in the mail or your inbox, it can be hard to know what to make of it. Member statements are often full of figures and terms you don’t quite understand, making them a daunting read. But it’s important to check at least a few key points to ensure your retirement savings ... Read more
When should I retire?
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. Sometimes, the choice is made for you. Redundancy, ... Read more
The rules of superannuation: Your guide for 2019/2020
When you mention super, most people shake their head and mutter about the constant rule changes. Looking back over the past few years it’s a fair comment, with many significant changes occurring – and many more proposed but never legislated. If you are wondering how those changes have affected your super and ... Read more
Super housekeeping: 10 tips for the end of financial year
With only a few weeks remaining before the end of the 2018/2019 financial year, it’s time to ensure you have your super affairs in order and all your paperwork is ready for the big day when you lodge your income tax return. To help ensure you have maximised the tax benefits available within the super system, here’s ... Read more
Super tips and strategies for all ages
Whatever your age, putting some time and effort into your super now can result in significant benefits down the track. To help get you headed in the right direction, SuperGuide has put together a list of useful tips and strategies to consider implementing in each decade. And don’t wait until just before retirement. If ... Read more
The easy way to find and consolidate your lost super
If you’ve ever changed jobs, address or your name then there is a chance you are one of the almost 2.3 million Australians with three or more super accounts, contributing to $17.5 billion in lost or unclaimed super across Australia. This is not just an administrative problem. If you have several super accounts it could ... Read more
How to compare super funds in 7 easy steps
Superannuation is a long-term investment but that doesn’t mean you can afford to put off thinking about it for a day that never comes. Like any long-distance journey, you want to make sure you know where you are headed and how to reach it. That includes finding a vehicle that’s fit for purpose. Otherwise, you could ... Read more