We often talk about the benefits of financial planning, and how it can help you plan your retirement, or assist with tax issues.

To help explain those benefits, we’ll be sharing a series of real case studies, prepared by our planners.

Getting us started is a look at a married couple in their 60s, and how our planner, Jason Cook, helped them receive an additional $9,230 in Age Pension benefits every year. 

The scenario: how to maximise Age Pension payments 

Jim and Sarah are a married couple. They’re both retired. Jim (at 66 years) has reached his Age Pension qualification age and is receiving $357 per fortnight in Age Pension entitlements. His super is in an Account Based Pension.

Sarah, at 62, hasn’t yet reached her Age Pension qualification age. She still has her super in a regular accumulation account. 

The opportunity: Centrelink asset and income tests

When calculating Age Pension entitlements, Centrelink looks at the balance in an Account Based Pension.

If one partner has not reached their Age Pension qualification age and has funds in a Superannuation Accumulation Account, that balance is not included in the Assets and Income Tests when calculating Age Pension Payments. 

In this scenario we recommended that Jim withdraw $290,000 from his Account Based Pension and deposit it into Sarah’s super account as a non-concessional contribution*. (Note: As Sarah is permanently retired from the workforce and at least 60 years old, she has unconditional access to these funds tax-free if required.)

The transfer of funds means that Jim’s assessable assets are reduced by $290,000, which sees his Age Pension entitlements increase from $357 per fortnight to $712 per fortnight. That’s an extra $9,230 a year for the next five years – until Sarah reaches her Age Pension qualification age.

The tax implications: investment earnings in super 

It’s worth noting that there are tax implications for the above scenario. The $290,000 that sat tax free in Jim’s Account Based Pension will be subject to a 15% tax on any earnings in Sarah’s super account.

Assuming she earns 5% in investment earnings on that $290,000 and is then taxed 15% on those earnings it comes out to $2,175 in annual tax.

The big picture: more money in retirement 

Taking a step back, we can see that the couple in this scenario qualified for an additional $9,230 in Age Pension entitlements. When you subtract those additional tax obligations, they’re still $7,055 better off each year.

Over the next five years, they could have a net benefit of approximately $35,275 whilst still retaining tax-free access to all their superannuation funds.

Speak to a financial planner

If you’re approaching retirement a financial planner can help you better understand your options and recommend the best way to structure your finances. Equip members can speak to one of our financial planners at no additional charge.

Find out more about our financial planning services.