SMSF Estate Planning

Secure Your Legacy with Professional SMSF Estate Planning Services

New Wave SMSF.

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SMSF Estate Planning

Estate planning is an important process that involves the management and distribution of a person's assets after their death. In the context of a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF), estate planning involves planning for the distribution of the fund's assets after the death of its members.

Having a clear estate plan is crucial for ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are provided for in the event of your death. It is important to note that the rules around estate planning in an SMSF can be complex, and it is therefore essential to seek professional advice.

At our financial planning firm, our SMSF specialists can provide expert advice on estate planning. We can help you to develop a comprehensive estate plan that takes into account your individual circumstances and ensures that your assets are distributed in accordance with your wishes.

Our services include:

Reviewing your existing estate plan, if you have one, and identifying any areas that may need updating or revising.
Assisting you in developing an appropriate succession plan for your SMSF, including the appointment of a suitable trustee and the creation of a binding death benefit nomination.
Advising you on the tax implications of different estate planning strategies, including the use of testamentary trusts and other structures.
Providing ongoing support and advice as your circumstances change, to ensure that your estate plan remains up-to-date and relevant.

SMSF Binding Benefit Nominations

As a member of a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF), it is essential to plan for the future and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes in the event of your death. One way to ensure that your superannuation benefits are distributed according to your wishes is through a binding death benefit nomination (BDBN).

A BDBN is a legal document that nominates who should receive your superannuation benefits in the event of your death. By making a valid BDBN, you can ensure that your benefits are distributed to the intended beneficiaries and avoid disputes and delays.

At our firm, our SMSF specialists can assist you in preparing a BDBN that complies with the legal requirements and is tailored to your individual circumstances. We can provide guidance on the different options available, such as nominating your spouse, children, or other dependents, and ensure that your nomination is valid and binding.

We can also assist you in reviewing and updating your BDBN periodically to ensure that it remains relevant and reflects any changes in your personal circumstances.

Contact us today to discuss how we can assist you in preparing a binding death benefit nomination that provides peace of mind and ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

SMSF Testamentary Trusts

At our firm, we understand that estate planning involves more than just creating a will. One of the key tools we use to help our clients achieve their estate planning goals is the establishment of a testamentary trust.

A testamentary trust is a trust that is created through a person's will and only comes into effect upon their death. It can provide significant benefits to the beneficiaries of the trust, including asset protection, tax minimisation, and flexibility in how the assets are distributed.

In a self-managed superannuation fund context, the establishment of a testamentary trust can be particularly important in ensuring that the assets held in the fund are distributed according to the member's wishes and in a tax-effective manner.

Our team of experienced financial planners can help you understand the benefits of establishing a testamentary trust and provide advice on how to structure the trust to achieve your estate planning goals. We can also work with your legal advisor to ensure that your will and other estate planning documents are drafted in a way that maximises the benefits of the trust.

SMSF Ownership Structures

As a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) trustee, protecting your assets is crucial. One way to do this is by considering different ownership structures. An ownership structure can help protect your SMSF assets from potential creditors and legal disputes.

At our firm, we can provide advice on different ownership structures that may suit your needs. One option to consider is setting up a trust structure, such as a family trust or a unit trust. This type of structure can help to separate your SMSF assets from your personal assets and limit your personal liability.

Another option is to establish a company to hold your SMSF assets. This can help to provide an additional layer of protection as the company would be a separate legal entity, protecting your personal assets in the event of any legal action or creditor claims.

Our financial planners can work with you to determine which ownership structure may be best suited to your specific circumstances and goals. We can also assist with the set up and ongoing management of the chosen structure, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and laws.

Protecting your SMSF assets is crucial for your financial security and peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with ownership structures for asset protection in your SMSF.

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What services do you offer?

New Wave SMSF financial planners offer a wide range of services to help clients manage their self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs). Some of the services we offer include: SMSF set-up: An SMSF financial planner can assist clients with the establishment of a new SMSF, including the preparation of trust deeds, appointing trustees, and registering the fund with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Investment strategy development: SMSF financial planners can work with clients to develop an investment strategy that is aligned with their financial goals and risk appetite. This includes selecting investment assets, determining asset allocation, and monitoring investment performance. Compliance and administration: SMSF financial planners can help ensure that clients' SMSFs remain compliant with regulatory requirements, including the preparation and lodgement of annual tax returns, financial statements, and other reporting obligations. Retirement planning: SMSF financial planners can help clients plan for their retirement income needs, including determining their retirement goals, estimating retirement expenses, and developing a strategy for drawing down on their SMSF assets. Estate planning: SMSF financial planners can assist clients with estate planning, including the creation of binding death benefit nominations, the establishment of testamentary trusts, and the development of succession plans. Risk management: SMSF financial planners can help clients manage risk within their SMSFs, including insurance needs analysis, the selection of appropriate insurance products, and the development of risk management strategies.It’s a great way to help people navigate your site and can even boost your site’s SEO.
Is an SMSF the right choice for me?

Whether an SMSF is suitable for you depends on various factors such as your financial goals, investment experience, and the time and resources you have available to manage the fund. Our financial planners can help you assess whether an SMSF is the right choice for your individual circumstances. Book in a free 30 Min consult today.
What are the investment options available to me in an SMSF?

SMSFs offer a broad range of investment options, including direct property investments, shares, managed funds, and term deposits. However, trustees need to ensure that their investments are in line with their investment strategy and comply with regulatory requirements. Our Gold Coast SMSF Financial Planners can assist with guiding you towards the right investment strategy
How much super is recommended to start an SMSF?

The amount of money required to start an SMSF will vary depending on your individual circumstances, goals, and investment strategy. While there is no minimum amount required by law to establish an SMSF, most financial experts suggest that you should have at least $200,000 to $500,000 in superannuation savings to make an SMSF cost-effective. Before deciding to start an SMSF, it's recommended to seek professional financial advice to ensure it's the right choice for your individual circumstance
What accounting services do you offer?

New Wave SMSF is a forward thinking accounting firm providing tailored self managed superannuation fund (SMSF) services on the Gold Coast and across Australia. We assist clients with: Accounting, Structuring, SMSF Software, SMSF Setup, Tax, BAS, Compliance, SMSF Bookkeeping and Tax Advice. At New Wave, our mission is to empower, excite and build confidence in SMSF's by providing clarity in their figures.
What are the costs involved in setting up an SMSF?

The costs of setting up an SMSF can vary depending on the complexity of the fund, the number of members, and the services required. Typically, the setup fees can range from $1,000 to $3,000, while ongoing costs can range from $2,000 to $3,000 per year. We can provide you with a fixed fee quote based on the size and complexity of your work.
What are the rules and regulations around SMSFs?

SMSFs are regulated by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and must comply with the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS Act) and the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Regulations 1994 (SIS Regulations). The rules cover various aspects of SMSF management, including trustee duties, investment restrictions, contribution limits, and reporting requirements.
How do I ensure compliance with ATO regulations?

To ensure compliance with ATO regulations, SMSF trustees need to maintain accurate and up-to-date records, prepare and lodge annual returns, and follow investment restrictions. Engaging an experienced SMSF accountant can help ensure compliance with ATO regulations and provide peace of mind.
What are the tax implications of having an SMSF?

SMSFs enjoy concessional tax treatment, with income earned within the fund taxed at a maximum rate of 15% (or 0% if in pension phase). Additionally, SMSFs may be eligible for capital gains tax (CGT) discounts if assets are held for longer than 12 months. However, there are various tax rules and regulations that SMSF trustees need to be aware of to avoid penalties and fines.