Super benefits may comprise of two components: a tax-free and taxable (taxed element) component. In this article, we discuss a re-contribution strategy—one way to increase the tax-free component.
A power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone the authority to manage your affairs on your behalf. In this article, we provide an overview of the different types of powers of attorney.
The receipt and review of your annual super statement can assist you to stay actively engaged with, and well-informed on, your super. In this article, we provide a review checklist to help with this.
One of the most important things we can do prior to our passing is to ensure we have a valid will in place. In this article, we provide an overview of various intestacy rules that exist in Australia.
When an adverse event does occur, the outcome for those with an appropriate measure in place and those without can be vastly different. In this article, we list various personal finance measures.
Upon commencing a pension, you may have the option to nominate a reversionary beneficiary. In this article, we discuss the facts on this type of superannuation income stream death benefit nomination.
Older Australians are increasingly choosing to remain living in their own homes for as long as possible. In this article, we provide a summary of the aged care and informal care space.
A limit applies to the amount of super benefits you can transfer from accumulation phase to retirement phase to support an account-based pension. In this article, we discuss the transfer balance cap.
A resolution is a firm decision to do or not to do something. In this article, we discuss New Year’s resolutions, and why it can be challenging to keep these resolutions (and resolutions generally).
Change is inevitable. In this article, we cover legislative changes to the Higher Education Loan Program, the Farm Household Allowance, the Paid Parental Leave Scheme, and overseas welfare recipients.
When transferring wealth before your passing, it’s vital to consider the potential financial impact to you. In this article, we discuss Age Pension entitlements, and the gifting and deprivation rules.
Estate planning is about planning who gets what assets, at what time and in what manner upon your passing. In this article, we provide the answers to our recent estate planning crossword.
Estate planning is about planning who gets what assets, at what time and in what manner upon your passing. In this crossword, we cover the different components relating to the planning of your estate.
As a super fund member, you will be receiving your annual super statement soon. In this article, we provide you with a helpful checklist for reviewing this important document.
The saying ‘asset-rich, but income-poor’ can be an accurate description of the financial situation of some retirees. In this article, we look at the Government’s Pension Loans Scheme.
Several proposals regarding small and medium businesses, primary producers and farmers, consumers, aged care and education have recently been legislated. In this article, we unpack these for you.
With 2019 here, it’s time to kick-start your personal finances for the year ahead. In this article, we provide you with a financial checklist to help you take stock of your personal circumstances.
For some of us, there will come a time when we part ways with our spouse for one reason or another. In this article, we look at several findings regarding the financial impact of divorce.
When it comes to ageing and health in retirement, there are often three chapters that people will experience as they move through their retirement years. In this article, we look at this in terms of retirement planning and better informing your expectations of what retirement may entail for you.
Treasurer Scott Morrison delivered the 2018-19 Federal Budget on 8 May 2018. We provide you with a summary of the main proposed measures that may be relevant to you and your personal finances.
The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) provides a regularly updated guide as to what it may cost to fund your retirement in the post-work years, depending on your age, marital status and lifestyle. We drill further down into the detail and provide some useful insights.
Your will is normally the main document that facilitates the distribution of your assets to your intended beneficiaries upon your passing. In this increasingly digital age, your online ‘digital footprint’ or ‘cyber assets’, may also be an important inclusion worth considering.
If you or a loved one requires higher-level aged care services, but would still like to reside at home then a Home Care Package may be an option to consider. In this article, we take a closer look at how this service works.
For the majority of people, being able to live independently in your home as you age is what you want, but the reality is that sometimes you may need some help. In this article, we focus on the Commonwealth Home Support Programme.
According to recent research, approximately 45% of Australians pass away without a will, or intestate. We explore why DIY will’s may not be the solution to your estate planning needs.
We generally expect that our wishes for medical treatment will be respected, but what happens when we are not able to make decisions, due to an accident, sudden illness, or a progressive disease. Having an advanced care directive is a way to ensure that our preferences for medical treatment are considered at a time when we may be unable to express them.
In our busy lives, talking about money matters with our family may prove to be a daunting and sometimes emotional subject, especially around the dinner table. However, avoiding these often difficult conversations may have several drawbacks in the future.
There is a common misconception that in order to give you need to be wealthy, and that the only thing you can give is money. But the truth is that there are many different financial and non-financial ways that you can give to others. See how you can bring philanthropy into your life and make a real difference.
The 2016 Federal Budget may impact you more than you think, mainly because your tax dollars go towards making it happen, but also because changes were announced that affect nearly every Australian.
There are many different ways to assist ageing parents in better managing their financial affairs and even small things can make a difference. We provide you with some useful tips to help you through this process.
Moving in with a partner can be an exciting time, but don’t just jump in. Take the time to think upfront about the financial practicalities and what it could mean if things don’t go according to plan. This might apply to you or a loved one.
Do you have a robust estate plan and is it up to date? There are important things to consider as you go through the process of developing or reviewing your estate plan. These can make a big difference to your dependants and loved ones.
It’s nearly time to sign off from work and start the holidays. Give yourself a stress-free vacation knowing that your finances are taken care of by ticking off these financial ‘to-dos’.
With so many decisions to make in life, we often forget to plan. But certain events are too important to gamble with - have you planned for the things that matter?
These days there are many different ways people can change their living situation as they get older. Are you thinking about your next move? Explore the different options that might be suitable to you.
There are many things to consider when returning to work after caring for young ones. There are both financial and non-financial considerations. This article explores the important things that need to be considered.
The 2015 Federal Budget was relatively tame, with a big focus on creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. Our article looks at what’s in it for you. From the changes for the young and unemployed, for families, business owners, to the over 50's and the already retired.
Are you leaving an inheritance or a legacy? What’s the difference? We explain in this article.
When a marriage, or a de-facto relationship breaks down, the task of separating finances can be very difficult and stressful. This article looks into the financial implications of divorce with regards to asset splitting.
The Christmas season - a time for giving, is fast approaching. Donating to charity is a wonderful way to support the wider community and those in need. This article takes a look at the ins and outs of donating to charity.
There are fundamental differences between Joint Tenants VS Tenants in Common, we review the importance of getting it right when purchasing assets with other people.
Do you know if you are an Executor of somebody’s will? Before appointing an Executor in your Will, or agreeing to be an Executor of someone else’s estate, it is important that you understand the implications of this decision and the roles and responsibilities that come with the title of Executor.
We may not like to think about it – but when it comes to our death, it pays to plan ahead. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the financial stress that result from poor estate planning.
When we were children, our parents spent a good deal of time taking care of us – and reminded some of us that one day, we would return the favour.
Having no Will, or a poorly drafted Will, can have devastating financial and emotional consequences. It is therefore wise to understand what would happen to your assets if you were to die.
If you do have future financial goals, such as, retirement, buying a house, paying off your mortgage or buying a car or boat, then planning can certainly help achieve such goals in a timely and effective way.
As there are so many areas of finance, it can be overwhelming to review every area of your finances. Here is a short list of suggestions that might help you choose some areas that you would like to review or make a change in.