Practical estate planning advice on wills, probate, deceased estate tax returns, succession and asset protection for families and small business owners. Tax-smart, actionable guidance.
Imagine waking up to a legal notice that puts a A$1.2 million claim on your family home because of a contract dispute in your business you didn't see...
Divorce, Small Business Pressure, and Why January Pushes Relationships Off the Rails Early January is widely known as Divorce Day, the time of year when enquiries about separation and divorce surge. After the intensity of Christmas and New Year, many couples—particularly those running small businesses—find that the cracks in their relationship become impossible to ignore. For some, this is the moment where divorce becomes a serious consideration, not because the holidays caused the problems, but because they exposed them. Divorce Day and the January Breaking Point The festive season brings financial strain, long periods of time together, and heightened [...] READ MORE
Lodging a final Deceased Estate Tax Return is one of the essential things to do when managing someone's final affairs. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is a deeply emotional and challenging time. Beyond grief and sorrow, there are often numerous administrative tasks to navigate. One of these tasks is managing the deceased person's tax return. It can seem daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with the tax system. However, understanding the process can make it less overwhelming. We, as Accountants who specialise in this area, can help.In the Australian context, the taxation obligations of a deceased person don't [...] READ MORE
Enjoy this month’s December Newsletter featuring articles on these topics: Planning a festive break at a holiday home owned by your SMSF? Who can make a claim against a deceased estate Avoiding an ATO audit Can the cost of clothing be tax deductible? The 50% CGT discount and complex eligibility rules Could you be missing out on thousands in lost super? Click here to download our December Newsletter Contact us on 03 9597 9966 if you have any questions relating to matters raised in any of our Client Newsletters.
This month, we bring you a selection of timely and practical articles covering key updates in tax and superannuation – all designed to keep you informed, confident, and in control of your finances. In this edition: Protecting your super from scams – with over $4 trillion in superannuation, it’s no wonder scammers see it as a target. ASIC has warned Australians to stay vigilant amid rising pushy sales tactics and false promises aimed at persuading people into risky super fund switches. Since your super is one of your most significant investments, we outline key steps to help safeguard [...] READ MORE
As a Divorce Accountant, we aim to help you get a fair and equitable deal as you work through an emotional time. What You Need to Know When It All Splits Up Divorce and taxes are neither fun nor part of life's matters. With at least one in three marriages ending in divorce — and countless more de facto relationships breaking down — the capital gains tax (CGT) roll-over provisions for relationship breakdowns have become increasingly relevant for Australians navigating separation. At Gartly Advisory, we specialise as Divorce Accountants and help clients navigate divorce tax and business implications of separating [...] READ MORE
Here’s what’s inside our September newsletter: Economic roundtable wash up – We break down last month’s economic and productivity roundtable outcomes, with the government firmly in control of what tax policy measures might or might not be introduced down the track. Exceeding your super contribution caps – Super is a great tool for retirement savings, but annual contribution limits apply. We explain what to do if you go over the cap and how to navigate the rules effectively. CGT and off the plan purchases – Buying property off the plan? There are important CGT implications you need [...] READ MORE
Divorce and my business are the number one questions that we often get asked. What happens, and how can we manage the damage when going through a divorce? We are here to help, as divorce can be hard, emotional and full of financial traps. When your ex-partner is also tied into your small business, the financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming. At Gartly Advisory, we understand that the end of a relationship isn’t just personal—it’s business. And it's where you may have questions on how divorce and my business will end up. Whether your partner was a co-owner, silent [...] READ MORE
This month we features articles on: • Good CGT records can save you money • Concessional super contributions vs mortgage paydown: what’s the smarter move? • Writing a will in a tax-effective manner • Binding death benefit nominations explained • Small-scale subdivision and property development Click here to download our May Newsletter Contact us on 03 9597 9966 if you have any questions relating to matters raised in any of our Client Newsletters.
Our April edition features pieces on: • We may need to talk about your family trust • Selling property? Buyers must withhold and pay the ATO! • Three great reasons to start a transition to retirement pension • Employees vs contractors: what sets them apart • No CGT exemption for homes held on trust • Concessional contributions: can there be too much of a good thing? Click here to download our April Newsletter Contact us on 03 9597 9966 if you have any questions relating to matters raised in any of our Client Newsletters.
Many ask if it is possible running a B n B using your SMSF? The allure of a coastal property. The sound of waves crashing, stunning sunsets, and the potential for lucrative rental income and capital growth. These are all good reasons to invest in coastal real estate. If you have a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF), you might wonder whether such an investment could fit within your retirement strategy. The short answer is yes, but with a few critical hurdles to navigate. The Vision vs. The Rules Picture this: a charming beach house listed as an Air BnB, earning a [...] READ MORE
Carry Forward Concessional Contributions can assist in your tax planning strategy for 2025 . As a small business owner, navigating the tax landscape can save money and help you grow your financial future. One area worth exploring is carry-forward concessional contributions. This tax strategy enables you to boost your retirement savings while potentially reducing your tax liability, especially for those in their 50s who have not had sufficient cash flow to contribute in the past. We also use the strategy for those one of big tax bills, such as capital gains, that can sometimes help dilute your tax bill. What [...] READ MORE
Investing in Cryptocurrency by my SMSF is becoming an attractive option for many. With the growing interest in cryptocurrency as an asset class, many SMSF (Self-Managed Superannuation Fund) trustees are exploring the potential of digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum to diversify their portfolios. While Crypto can be an exciting investment, managing it within an SMSF has unique challenges and compliance requirements. Cryptocurrency investments in an SMSF environment raise issues such as trust deed considerations, compliance, storage methods like cold wallets, and how to sell crypto assets effectively. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, these insights [...] READ MORE
Estate planning for the living! What is Estate planning? Many of us go through life not thinking about the end. Many often think "Do I need a will"? Many don’t bother! We start life naked with nothing and we end up leaving an imprint on this earth that others must follow. Telling others how you want what you have accumulated in life is important to support your loved ones. Wills establish wishes after death and are essential for estate planning The chances are that you may have wishes about who gets the large loot of assets and possessions. These assets you [...] READ MORE
Creating a robust SMSF trustee succession plan is critical for Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) managed by aging trustees. An effective succession plan ensures the smooth transition of control and management of the SMSF when the original trustees are no longer able or willing to manage the fund due to age, health, or other reasons. A trustee succession plan must encompass preparation, clear communication, and legal compliance. Understanding SMSF Trustee Succession SMSF trustee succession plan involves preparing for the future management of the SMSF, ensuring it continues to operate effectively and complies with Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS Act) requirements. [...] READ MORE
Navigating the Challenges and Moving Forward Divorce and your business. It can be a difficult and emotionally challenging process, and when a small business is involved, it adds another layer of complexity. A failed marriage may not directly cause a business to fail; it can significantly impact the business. Let's explore where husband and wife work daily together in the business and where the wheels fall of the marriage. The intersection of personal and professional lives can create unique challenges for couples who decide to end their marriage while still running a business together. According to the website Marriage.com, it [...] READ MORE
An SMSF can undertake property development. We, however, strongly recommend seeking advice from an SMSF accountant Melbourne. The ATO has issued a warning about the use of SMSFs to invest in property development in a manner that inflates the profits earned by the SMSFs when compared to the capital the SMSF commits to the venture. Can my SMSF invest in a property development? An SMSF can, as part of its investment strategy, invest in property ventures. This is provided the investments are entered into on a genuine arm’s-length basis. As trustees, you should document your strategy, including a risk analysis [...] READ MORE
Gifting Assets to a Trust or transferring property to a trust helps protect your investments and assets. Many families like to gift assets directly to members. There is no tax on gifting. We are often asked how much can you gift to a family member ? That's an entirely personal decision based on how much you have to give . Many gifting cash to family before death is a thoughtful way to assist and distribute assets based on your decisions. Beware that a pensioner and gifting money to family may find their pension is reduced, so be careful. Another [...] READ MORE
Superannuation Death benefits are an estate planning matter that is a crucial aspect of financial planning.It is essential to consider what happens to superannuation upon death.Understanding the intricate system of superannuation death benefits is essential for effective financial planning and ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of. When a superannuation member dies, the remaining balance in their super fund and any associated insurance payouts are generally paid out as a superannuation death benefit. This benefit is intended to provide financial support to the deceased member's beneficiaries, including their spouse or partner, children, or other dependents. However, the distribution [...] READ MORE
When do you need a Capital Gains Valuation? There are several reasons why you would obtain a valuation, such as: We suggest that when selling your home or acquired property through inheritance, demolishing a home or rental for property development GST matters. You may need to obtain a retrospective valuation capital gains property report. Getting a backdated valuation! Your capital gains report is often referred to as a backdated property valuation or a capital gains valuation.Whereas a property valuation will outline the property's market value at a specific time by a certified valuer. This report will help you work [...] READ MORE
Estate planning and SMSF can play a large role when it comes to Estate planning, which is an often-overlooked aspect of financial planning when executing your Will, superannuation, and wishes. Estate planning determines how your assets will be distributed once you pass away. However, estate planning can be complicated and overwhelming, which is why Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) have become popular. SMSFs are a powerful tool for estate planning and managing your retirement savings.Whether you're new to estate planning or simply looking for a more efficient way to manage your assets, leveraging the power of SMSF can help you achieve [...] READ MORE
SMSF and commercial property is an investment often held by an SMSF and is a good strategy. Is holding your business premises, Factory or shop in an SMSF a good strategy? Allowing your SMSF to hold your business real property is a fantastic opportunity for the small business owner to isolate its business asset from the main trading company. It also means you can become a long-term tenant of your SMSF. There are some distinct advantages for both estate planning and long-term protection strategies of your asset in an SMSF. Any property strategy it must be done properly and there [...] READ MORE
The downsizer contribution is an after-tax contribution. Therefore when it hits your SMSF or super fund, no tax is payable on the way in. It also means upon retirement, and it can be paid as a benefit. A benefit that is returned tax-free when you withdraw the funds from your SMSF Legislation passed Last week parliament passed legislation, resulting in the downsizer contribution to allow house owners over the age of 55 to access this strategy. The lowering to age 55 is expected date for the enactment would be later this year (2022) Downsizer contributions help you to increase your [...] READ MORE
SMSF Trustee role needs to be considered in your Estate planning Acting as a SMSF Trustee and incapacity are crucial issues to consider in running an SMSF. Have you considered what happens when something goes wrong, and you in a position to run your SMSF? Control is one of the main reasons many establish an SMSF. As an SMSF Trustee, you can control your own SMSF. You as the SMSF Trustee and member can control how the Funds' investments and the strategy on how and where. What happens if you can't do it anymore? What happens if things go [...] READ MORE
When I die what happens to my business and my affairs? Will my business continue or just stop? If you were running as a sole trader and you die, in most cases, your legal personal representative will step in . It is their role to manage your business. They can assess if the business needs to be wound up, sold or transferred to a beneficiary. Your business asset forms part of the assets of the estate. Therefore legally executed will , can help give certainty to your wishes. Many clients are unsure of the process of what happens once they [...] READ MORE
Geoff Gartly, Chartered Accountant, SMSF specialist, Business Exit Planner and Certified Business Valuebuilder Advisor, has over 35 Years of experience working with large and small businesses in accounting.
563 North Road, Ormond Victoria Australia 3204
(03) 9597 9966
admin@gartlyadvisory.com.au
Monday – Friday
9am – 5pm
© Gartly Advisory Chartered Accountants 2024 | Privacy Policy & Website terms and conditions | Complaints Policy | Financial Services Guide
© Gartly Advisory Chartered Accountants 2024 | Privacy Policy & Website terms and conditions | Complaints Policy | Financial Services Guide
© Gartly Advisory Chartered Accountants 2024
| Privacy Policy & Website terms and conditions
| Complaints Policy | Financial Services Guide
