Capital Gains Tax on the Home Continues to Baffle People

Capital gains tax on the home continues to baffle people. In a recent email a reader wondered about the position when a person moved into a new home, and rented out the original one. He asked if they can they nominate which is their principal place of residence, and also what address to put on …

War, Shares and Other Uncertainties

The world is facing challenging times, and as usual, I’m getting a raft of emails from people asking whether they should quit their investments before it’s too late. The other question many are asking is what likely effect the situation in the Ukraine may have on stock markets. It is normal to feel apprehensive when …

Latest Contributions Caps

Legislation has finally been passed to give effect to several of the key superannuation changes proposed in the 2021 Federal Budget. This is great news for retirees, and people approaching retirement, as they open the door to some worthwhile strategies. The changes include the removal of the work test requirement for non-concessional contributions for people …

Qualifying for Age Pension Part 2

Superannuation is an exempt asset for Centrelink purposes until the owner reaches pensionable age or until they start a pension from it. If a member of a couple has not reached pensionable age it’s prudent, if appropriate, to keep as much of the superannuation in the younger person’s name because then it is exempt from …

Qualifying for the Age Pension – Part One

As we move towards a federal election you can bet that retirees will be a major focus for all political parties. After all, they are the fastest growing group in the country and most of them have plenty of time on their hands to voice their opinions. But the system is complex, and many people …