We cover some of the factors to be aware of given changes have just passed in parliament and are due to become superannuation law.

Earlier this year, the Federal Budget announcement included a proposal to introduce changes to super bigger than the likes of anything we’ve seen in almost a decade. Then, in September the government announced some significant adjustments to its proposal.

The revised proposed changes to super have now passed through both houses of parliament and are due to become part of Australian superannuation law. The new laws will generally affect individuals with relatively high super balances, and will change contributions rules and the tax breaks available in super with most taking effect from 1 July 2017.

Wealth accumulation limits

When it comes to converting super into an income stream pension account in retirement (where no tax is paid on earnings or withdrawals) individuals with relatively high balances—who at the moment are not limited on the amount they can accumulate—will be restricted to $1.6 million in their pension accounts.

If you’re already retired, the financial consequence of having more than $1.6 million in your pension account is that after July 1, 2017 the excess will need to be taken out—either placed back into the super accumulation phase where earnings on it will be taxed at 15% or taken out of super completely. But speak with us before you decide.

Changes to transition to retirement rules

If you’re getting closer to retirement, you may feel penalised by the removal of the tax exemption on earnings in a transition-to-retirement (TTR) pension as one of the appealing aspects of the TTR strategy lay in the pension account’s tax-free earnings entitlement.

If you’re using a TTR to boost your super while salary sacrificing some of your income, the removal of earnings’ tax exemptions is likely to reduce the overall amount you end up accumulating in retirement unless you take other steps to grow your money, so be sure to speak with us about other opportunities.

If retirement is in your mid-short term future, now is a great time to get in touch with an adviser to help map out your plans. See if we are right for you.

Some leeway—no lifetime limit

While the government had proposed a lifetime limit of $500,000 on after-tax contributions, the proposal was not passed in parliament. Even so, depending on your circumstances, you may need to bear in mind the overall cap of $1.6 million mentioned earlier. Be sure to speak with us when it comes to planning how you’ll contribute to your super.

New contributions caps for all

As expected, there will be caps placed on the amounts you’re able to contribute to your super and the new caps will come into effect in July 2017.

After-tax contributions (also known as non-concessional contributions) will be capped at $100,000 per year (or up to $300,000 if you bring-forward the next two years and are under age 65). If you’re planning to benefit from super’s tax concessions by depositing money from an inheritance or the sale of an asset, you may need to start planning now so be sure to come and speak with us.

You may still be able to take advantage of the current limits that offer the potential (if you qualify for the bring forward rule) to deposit $540,000 before 30 June 2017—we can help you work out your options.

When it comes to before-tax (concessional) contributions, there are also new caps. So, if you make salary sacrifice payments for example you’ll be limited to a maximum annual amount of $25,000. This is considerably less than the current annual caps of $30,000 if you’re under 50 or $35,000 if you’re aged 50 and older.

There will no longer be a separate cap for those aged 50 and over. Everyone will be limited to the new pre-tax/before tax contributions limit of $25,000 per year.

More super tax for more high earners

Until July next year, those earning more than $300,000 will continue to pay 30% on their super contributions while everyone else pays 15%. From July 1 2017, the salary band will be lowered. That means people earning $250,000 or more will pay 30% tax on their contributions.

A good time to follow up

We’ve covered some of the main points here but there are other changes that may also affect you. It’s likely you’ll have questions about the best course of action in the lead up to the changes and after they take effect.

Now is a good time to call us and set up a time to come in so we can look ahead and put plans in place to help you make the most of your money.

Source: AMP

This article contains information that is general in nature. It does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. You need to consider your financial situation and needs before making any decisions based on this information. If you decide to purchase or vary a financial product, your financial adviser, Invest Blue Pty Ltd and its subsidiaries operating as Invest Blue, 1300 346 837 and other companies within the AMP Group may receive fees and other benefits. The fees will be a dollar amount and/or a percentage of either the premium you pay or the value of your investments. Please contact us if you want more information.

What you need to know

This information is provided by Invest Blue Pty Ltd (ABN 91 100 874 744). The information contained in this article is of general nature only and does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. Therefore, before making any decision, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice with regards to those matters and seek personal financial, tax and/or legal advice prior to acting on this information. Read our Financial Services Guide for information about our services, including the fees and other benefits that AMP companies and their representatives may receive in relations to products and services provided to you.