Are you considering setting up a self managed super fund (SMSF) but don’t know where to start? This article will guide you through the process, step by step, so you can make informed decisions and achieve your financial goals.

Understanding Self Managed Super Funds (SMSFs)

What is a Self Managed Super Fund?

A self managed super fund setup is a private superannuation fund that you manage yourself, as a trustee or director of a corporate trustee. SMSFs differ from other types of super funds, as you have more control over where your funds are invested and the types of assets you invest in. This means that you can tailor your investment strategy to meet your financial goals and preferences. For example, if you are passionate about ethical investments, you can choose to only invest in companies that align with your values.

One of the main benefits of SMSFs is that you have the ability to invest in a wide range of assets, including direct property, shares, and even artwork. This can provide greater diversification and potentially higher returns, compared to traditional super funds that may have more limited investment options. However, it’s important to note that with greater control comes greater responsibility and risk, as you are solely responsible for the performance of your investments.

Benefits of SMSFs

Setting up an SMSF has several benefits, including:

• Greater control over your investments and more flexibility to tailor your investment strategy to meet your financial goals. This means that you can make investment decisions based on your personal circumstances and risk appetite, rather than being limited by the investment options of a traditional super fund.
• Potential tax benefits, such as the ability to claim deductions on expenses associated with managing your SMSF. For example, you may be able to claim deductions on accounting fees, legal fees, and even insurance premiums.
• The ability to pool assets with up to three other people, such as family members or friends, to increase your buying power and investment opportunities. This can be particularly beneficial for those who may not have a large amount of money to invest individually, but can combine their resources to make larger investments.

Potential Risks and Challenges

Before deciding to set up an SMSF, it’s important to consider the potential risks and challenges, including:

• Increased responsibility and legal obligations as a trustee or director of a corporate trustee. This means that you must ensure that your SMSF complies with all relevant laws and regulations, and that you make decisions in the best interests of all members.
• The need for adequate knowledge and expertise to manage your SMSF effectively. This includes understanding investment strategies, tax laws, and compliance requirements. If you don’t have the necessary skills or experience, you may need to seek professional advice, which can be costly.
• Increased costs, including set-up fees, ongoing maintenance fees and professional advice fees. While SMSFs can provide greater control and potentially higher returns, they can also be more expensive to manage than traditional super funds.

Overall, SMSFs can be a valuable option for those who want more control over their superannuation investments and are willing to take on the additional responsibilities and risks. However, it’s important to carefully consider your personal circumstances and seek professional advice before making a decision.

Steps to Set Up a Self Managed Super Fund

Establishing the Fund’s Trust Deed

The first step in setting up an SMSF is to establish the fund’s trust deed. This legal document outlines the rules by which the fund will operate and must be prepared by a qualified legal professional. The trust deed should outline important information, such as the number of trustees, the types of investments the fund can hold, and the payment of benefits to members.

It is important to ensure that the trust deed is carefully drafted to reflect the specific needs and objectives of the SMSF. This may involve seeking legal advice to ensure that the document is comprehensive and compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.

Registering Your SMSF with the ATO

Once the trust deed is established, you’ll need to register your SMSF with the Australian Tax Office (ATO). This involves completing an application form and providing information about the fund, such as its name, address, and the names of the trustees. You should also apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN), Tax File Number (TFN) and an Electronic Service Address (ESA) for your SMSF. The ATO will provide you with a unique identifier, known as an Australian Superannuation Number (ASN), to use for your SMSF going forward.

It is important to ensure that all registration requirements are met to avoid any potential penalties or legal issues in the future.

Setting Up a Bank Account for Your SMSF

The next step is to set up a separate bank account for your SMSF. This account will be used to manage all income, expenses and investments for the SMSF. You’ll need to provide your bank with a letter of request and a certified copy of the trust deed and registration documents to open the account.

It is important to ensure that the bank account is set up in the name of the SMSF and that all transactions are conducted through this account. This will help to ensure that the SMSF remains compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.

Creating an Investment Strategy

With the legal and administrative set up complete, the next step is to create an investment strategy for your SMSF. This should be a carefully considered and well-documented plan that outlines the types of investments you’ll make, the risks associated with those investments and the expected returns. The investment strategy should also be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains relevant to the fund’s goals and objectives.

It is important to ensure that the investment strategy is tailored to the specific needs and objectives of the SMSF. This may involve seeking professional advice from a financial planner or investment advisor to ensure that the strategy is appropriate and meets all relevant legal requirements.

Overall, setting up an SMSF can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, with careful planning and professional advice, it can be a rewarding way to take control of your retirement savings and achieve your financial goals.

Roles and Responsibilities of SMSF Trustees

A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a type of retirement fund that is managed by its members. SMSFs can have either individual or corporate trustees. Individual trustees are made up of the members of the SMSF, while a corporate trustee is a separate legal entity that is appointed to act as trustee. Both types of trustees have different roles and responsibilities, and it’s important to understand these before making a decision.

Individual vs. Corporate Trustees

Individual trustees are typically used by smaller SMSFs, where the members are also the trustees. This can be a cost-effective option, as there are no fees associated with appointing a separate legal entity as a trustee. However, it’s important to note that individual trustees have unlimited liability and can be held personally responsible for any breaches of the superannuation laws.

On the other hand, corporate trustees are a separate legal entity and can provide more protection for SMSF members. They have limited liability, which means that the members of the SMSF are not personally liable for any breaches of the superannuation laws. Additionally, a corporate trustee can make it easier to manage the SMSF, as it provides a clear separation between the assets of the SMSF and the personal assets of the members.

Trustee Duties and Legal Obligations

As a trustee or director of a corporate trustee, you have several legal obligations and duties that must be fulfilled. These include:

• The duty to act in the best interests of all SMSF members. This means that you must make decisions that are in the best interests of all members, not just yourself or a particular member.
• The duty to formulate and review the investment strategy regularly. This involves setting out the investment objectives and risk tolerance of the SMSF, and regularly reviewing these to ensure they are still appropriate.
• The duty to keep accurate records and prepare annual financial statements. This involves keeping records of all transactions and investments made by the SMSF, and preparing annual financial statements that comply with the superannuation laws.

It’s important to take these duties and obligations seriously, as breaches of the superannuation laws can result in significant penalties and even the loss of your SMSF.

Managing Conflicts of Interest

Conflicts of interest can arise when managing an SMSF, particularly if the trustees are also members of the fund. It’s important to have mechanisms in place to identify and manage these conflicts of interest to ensure the best interests of the fund and its members are always prioritized.

One way to manage conflicts of interest is to have a clear and transparent decision-making process in place. This involves documenting all decisions made by the trustees, and ensuring that any conflicts of interest are disclosed and managed appropriately.

Another way to manage conflicts of interest is to appoint an independent trustee or professional adviser to provide an objective perspective on investment decisions. This can help to ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of the SMSF and its members.

Overall, managing an SMSF can be a complex and challenging task. However, by understanding your roles and responsibilities as a trustee, and taking steps to manage conflicts of interest, you can help to ensure the long-term success of your SMSF and the financial security of its members.Ongoing Management and Compliance

Record Keeping and Reporting Requirements

As a trustee or director of a corporate trustee, you’re responsible for maintaining accurate records and complying with reporting requirements set out by the ATO. This includes keeping detailed financial statements, minutes from trustee meetings and documentation outlining the fund’s investment decisions.

Annual Audits and Tax Returns

SMSFs are required to have their annual financial statements audited by an independent auditor. The auditor will assess the fund’s compliance with superannuation law and other regulatory requirements. You’ll also need to prepare and lodge an annual tax return with the ATO.

Updating Your Investment Strategy

It’s important to review and update your SMSF’s investment strategy on a regular basis to ensure it remains in line with the fund’s goals and objectives. This should be done in line with changing market conditions, legislative changes and the fund’s overall financial position.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a self managed super fund can be a complex process, but with the right guidance and knowledge, it can be a worthwhile investment strategy. By following the steps outlined in this article and understanding your roles and responsibilities as a trustee or director of a corporate trustee, you can take control of your superannuation and achieve your financial goals.

More to read: Your Roadmap to a Successful SMSF Setup