If you have an SMSF, it’s essential to get your fund is in good shape and ready for June 30 and the annual audit. Here’s how to get your SMSF shipshape for EOFY.
It’s particularly important this year, because the ATO is focused on fixing a number of issues when it comes to SMSFs. These include high rates of non-lodgment and problematic related party loans by SMSF members operating small businesses.
Check your paperwork is up-to-date
Review all the administrative responsibilities of your SMSF to identify any incomplete ones. These include updating the fund’s minutes to record all decisions and actions taken during the year, lodging any required Transfer Balance Account Reports (TBARs), and documenting decisions about benefit payments and withdrawals.
Although it’s easy to forget, SMSFs are required to keep all contact details, banking details and electronic service address up-to-date with the ATO.
Make contributions and payments early
If you want a super contribution counted in the 2022–23 financial year, ensure the fund’s bank account receives payment by 30 June.
Minimum pension payments to members also need to be made by 30 June to meet the annual payment rules and ensure the income stream doesn’t cease for income tax purposes.
Ensure contribution administration is ready
If your SMSF receives tax-effective super contributions for salary sacrifice arrangements, ensure the fund has all the necessary paperwork before the arrangements commences.
Check you have appropriate evidence (and trust deed authority) to verify any downsizer contributions. From 1 January 2023, SMSF members aged 55 and over are eligible to make a downsizer contribution of up to $300,000 ($600,000 for a couple).
Lodge your annual return on time
Non-lodgment of the annual return is a major red flag for the ATO, particularly for new SMSFs.
Ensure your annual return is prepared and lodged on time to avoid coming under the tax man’s microscope for potential illegal early access or non-compliance.
Consider implications of new tax rules
The planned new tax on member balances over $3 million could create significant issues for some SMSF members, so trustees should review the potential implications ahead of EOFY.
Funds with large, lumpy assets such as business real property should consider the implications and liquidity issues of members implementing strategies designed to limit the impact of the new tax.
Value the fund’s assets
SMSF rules require all fund assets to be valued at market value at year-end, including investments in unlisted companies or trusts, cryptocurrency, and collectible assets. The ATO is monitoring this area, so trustees should organise appropriate valuations as soon as possible.
Ensure valuations can be substantiated if there are audit queries and the process is undertaken in line with valuation guidelines.
Reassess your investment strategy
Review the fund’s investment strategy to ensure it covers all relevant areas, including whether investment asset ranges remain relevant to your investment objectives. Deviations from strategic asset ranges must be documented, together with intended actions to address them.
Review your NALE
Non-arm’s length expenses (NALE) and income are key interest areas for the ATO, so check the fund complies with the rules.
Pay particular attention to all SMSF transactions involving related parties and ensure their arm’s length nature can be fully substantiated.
Get your auditor onboard
Trustees are required to appoint their auditor at least 45 days before lodgment due date, so ensure you have this organised.
Prepare for earlier TBAR reporting
From 1 July 2023, SMSFs will be required to report TBARs more frequently. All TBAR events will need to be submitted 28 days after the quarter in which the event occurred, so ensure you have systems in place to meet the new requirement.
All TBAR events occurring in 2022-23 will need to be reported by 28 October 2023.
Ensure trustees have a director ID
SMSF with a corporate structure must ensure all trustees have a director ID number. Although this was a requirement from 1 November 2022, many SMSF trustees are yet to apply.
Holding a director ID is an essential part of the SMSF registration process and directors must apply via the Australian Business Registry Services website.
