It seems like June 30 rolls around quicker every year, so why wait until the last minute to get your finances in order?
With all the disruption and special support measures of the past two years, it is possible that your finances may have changed. So, it is a good idea to ensure you are on track for the upcoming end-of-financial-year (EOFY.)
Starting early is essential to making the most of opportunities on offer when it comes to your Super and tax affairs.
New limits for Super contributions:
Annual contribution limits for Super rose this financial year, so maximising your Super contributions to boost your retirement savings may be even more attractive.
From 1 July 2021, most people’s annual concessional contributions cap increased to $27,500 (up from $25,000.) This allows you to contribute a bit extra into your Super on a before-tax basis, potentially reducing your assessable income for tax purposes.
If you have any unused concessional contribution cap amounts from previous financial years and your Super balance is less than $500,000, you may be able to “carry forward” these amounts to make further Super contributions.
Another strategy that may be considered is to make a personal contribution for which you claim a tax deduction. These contributions count towards your $27,500 cap and were previously available only to the self-employed. To qualify, you must notify your Super fund in writing of your intent to claim and receive acknowledgement.
Non-concessional Super strategies:
If you have some spare cash, it may also be worth taking advantage of the higher non-concessional (after-tax) contributions cap. From 1 July 2021, the non-concessional cap increased to $110,000 annually (up from $100,000.)
These contributions may help if you have reached your concessional contributions cap, received an inheritance, or have additional personal savings you would like to put into Super. If you are aged 67 years or older, however, you need to meet the requirements of the work test or work test exemption.
For those under age 67 (previously age 65) at any time during 2021-22, you may be able to use a bring-forward arrangement to make a contribution of up to $330,000 (three years x $110,000.)
To take advantage of the bring-forward rule, your total Super balance (TSB) must be under the relevant limit on 30 June of the previous year. Depending on your TSB, your personal contribution limit may be less than $330,000, so it is a good idea to talk to us first.
More Super things to think about:
If you plan to make tax-effective Super contributions through a salary sacrifice arrangement, now may be a good time to discuss this with your employer, as the ATO requires documentation prior to commencement.
Another option if you are aged 65 and over and plan to sell your home, is to consider a downsizer contribution. You can contribute up to $300,000 ($600,000 for a couple) from the proceeds without meeting the work test.
And don’t forget contributing into your low-income spouse’s Super account could score you a tax offset of up to $540.
Know your tax deductions:
It is also worth thinking beyond Super for tax savings. If you have been working from home due to COVID-19, you can use the shortcut method to claim 80 cents per hour worked for your running expenses. But make sure you can substantiate your claim.
You also need supporting documents to claim work-related expenses such as car, travel, clothing and self-education. Check whether you qualify for other common expense deductions such as tools, equipment, union fees, the cost of managing your tax affairs, charity donations and income protection premiums.
Review your investment portfolio:
After a year of strong investment market performance, now may be a good time to review your investments outside Super.
If you would like to discuss EOFY strategies and Super contributions, please contact us.