Superannuation for Doctors and Medical Professionals
Superannuation funds set aside during an individual’s working life for retirement. It is important that medical professionals are aware of the ways they can manage superannuation to maximise the funds available at retirement.
Superannuation for doctors allows for diverse investments, such as shares, property and managed funds. Superannuation funds may also offer different types of insurance, such as income protection. Super is taxed at a lower rate than regular income which can have a great impact for medical practitioners earning above the high-income threshold.
Individuals can choose to invest in an existing public superannuation fund, or create a private self-managed superannuation fund. Choosing between a public superannuation fund and self-managed superannuation fund is a major financial decision, which should be made after considering financial, accounting and legal advice.
Self-Managed Superannuation Funds
A self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) is a superannuation fund with fewer than five members, all its members are also a trustee or a director of a corporate trustee. The Trustee of a superannuation entity is required to ensure that the prescribed standards in this legislation are complied with at all times.
SMSFs provide practitioners with freedom to make investment decisions and take control of their super funds. SMSFs can also act as a vehicle to protect the retirement benefits of members and provide asset protection benefits. Superannuation benefits are generally protected under the Bankruptcy Act 1966 (Cth) which means that a SMSF is exempt property of a bankrupt member. This may provide additional asset protection for medical practitioners
A SMSF may be an important consideration for medical practitioners who intend to purchase assets, such as commercial property, to start-up or expand their practice. However, there are legislated restrictions governing SMSF ownership of assets. We can assist you with SMSF compliance and regulatory issues.
How can we help with SMSF legal management?
Our solicitors are highly experienced in assisting medical professionals in managing their superannuation funds to maximise wealth. We help medical professionals:
- understand the obligations of a SMSF trustee
- understand tax benefits and concessions related to particular investment assets
- deal with compliance and regulatory issues
- work with accounting and finance advisers, and
- plan the succession of their superannuation fund.
Related Medical Topics
Estate planning for doctors
Business structuring for doctors
Asset protection for doctors
If you need assistance with establishing or managing a SMSF, email us at enquires@butlers.net.au or call us on (02) 4929 7002.