Independent financial advice: Why it’s important and how to find it
Most people would expect the financial advice they receive is independent and free of conflicts of interest, but that is not always the case. Here’s what to look for.
Articles by Barbara Drury
How to find a super financial adviser
Good advice can make an enormous difference to your financial health and wellbeing, which is why it’s worth taking these steps to find the right financial adviser for your needs.
Financial advice: What are the risks and benefits?
There is mounting evidence that financial advice can be good for your hip pocket as well as your general wellbeing, but you need to be vigilant.
8 warning signs of a bad financial adviser
The vast majority of financial advisers want the best for their clients, but sadly, some abuse their position for personal gain. Here’s what to watch out for.
Retirement Income Review finds 9.5% super is enough
The wisdom of increasing compulsory super next July is not the only reason the Retirement Income Review was eagerly anticipated, but it certainly added fuel to the fire.
SMSF compliance: What are trustees’ responsibilities?
SMSFs provide members with a high degree of control and flexibility, but there are strict rules attached.
SMSF reporting and record-keeping requirements
SMSFs have many attractions but keeping up with the admin is not one of them. Here’s what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law.
Starting a pension from your super
When you retire there’s more than one way to withdraw income from your super; we explain your options.
Super strategies after losing your spouse: What are the rules?
Deciding whether to take your partner’s super death benefits as a lump sum, pension or a bit of both requires careful planning; the earlier the better.
What strategies can I consider to reduce tax on a super pension paid from my SMSF?
When and how you withdraw income from your super in retirement can have significant tax benefits.
What is the Age Pension age?
The age at which eligible retirees can start receiving the Age Pension has risen to 67. Bad news if you were born from 1957 on, but the good news is there are no plans to lift the age further.
ETFs: How do I use them and what do they cost?
Exchange-traded funds have exploded in popularity in recent years as an efficient, cost-effective way to build a portfolio, with new funds launched almost monthly.
SMSF returns are on par with large funds
Well diversified SMSFs with $200,000 or more in assets perform as well or better than large funds, but funds in pension phase do things differently to the rest.
What to do if the market tanks and you’re retired, or close to it
Volatile markets and an uncertain economic outlook are challenging for investors, especially if you are close to retirement. But even retirees can benefit from playing the long game.
How much does financial advice cost?
There’s a perception that financial advice is just for the wealthy. While the cost can be high, the amount you pay will depend on the complexity of the advice and where you get it.
SMSFs: Minimum account-based pension payments, strategies and calculator
SMSFs in pension phase need to be extra careful when setting their pension payments for 2023-24, as minimum drawdown rates double from 1 July.
Early release of super on compassionate grounds
While compassion is a general term, the ATO applies strict rules when deciding whether you can withdraw some of your super early on compassionate grounds.
Early release of super due to severe financial hardship
You may be able to withdraw a small lump sum from your retirement savings if you are in severe financial hardship and not otherwise eligible to access your super, but strict rules apply.
