- Published on 30 Aug 2023
- - Self Managed Superannuation
Streamlining the Closure of Your Self-Managed Superannuation Fund: A Step-by-Step Guide
Managing your own superannuation fund offers control and flexibility, but there might come a time when winding it up is the right move. Understanding the key steps involved can help you navigate this process smoothly.
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Review Your Trust Deed: Begin by reviewing your fund's trust deed. This legal document outlines the rules and procedures for winding up the fund. Make sure you're aware of any specific requirements or restrictions.
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Member Decision: As a trustee, it's important to get the approval of all fund members to wind up the fund. This decision needs to be documented and recorded properly.
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Valuation of Assets: Get a current valuation of your fund's assets. This will help determine the fund's value and ensure fair distribution among members.
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Settle Liabilities: Before closing the fund, settle any outstanding liabilities and expenses. This might include taxes, fees, and other obligations.
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Appoint a Liquidator: If the fund holds any collectibles or personal use assets, they must be sold at market value. Appoint a qualified independent valuer to assess these assets.
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Notify Regulatory Authorities: Inform the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) of your decision to wind up the fund. Lodge a final tax return and provide necessary documents.
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Distribute Assets: Once all liabilities are settled and regulatory requirements are met, it's time to distribute the fund's remaining assets among the members as per their entitlements. This will likely involve rolling funds to other approved Superannuation product providors where the member wishes to retain the benefits in the Super system.
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Final Audit and Reporting: Conduct a final audit of the fund's financial statements and prepare a final set of accounts. This helps ensure transparency and compliance.
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Report to ATO: Lodge a final SMSF annual return with the ATO. This signals the completion of winding up the fund.
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Keep Records: Maintain records of all the steps you've taken to wind up the fund. This documentation might be needed for future reference.
Remember, winding up a self-managed superannuation fund can be complex. Seeking professional advice from financial advisors or tax experts is recommended to ensure a seamless process that complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
Why not take the next step and talk to a qualified financial planner?
LifeTime Financial Group are specialist (holding appropriate accreditations) advisors who are ideally positioned to assist you with your Self Managed Super arrangements.
If you would like to discuss your financial planning needs, why not call us today on 03 9596-7733? There is no cost or obligation for our initial conversation/meeting.
Alternatively, please make an appointment using our online Book an appointment (Blue button above)
LifeTime Financial Group. A leading privately-owned Melbourne-based Financial Planning practice with no ties to any financial institution.