Cutting household costs

Cutting household costs

Ten ways to save on your bills You may already be an enthusiastic budgeter. Or you may be a spendthrift. Either way, as prices head skyward, it’s always helpful to keep your household expenses as low as possible. Today we share how to save money in the ten highest...
Discount and concession cards

Discount and concession cards

Which one is for you? When it comes to saving money in retirement, it’s fair to say that discount and concession cards can make a huge difference. The difficulty is that there are so many different types of cards for retirees that it becomes confusing as to which card...
Handling an inheritance

Handling an inheritance

Will Steve lose his pension? This week we received a question from Steve who is due to inherit a sizable amount of money. But he’s worried that this will be to the detriment of his part Age Pension entitlement. Here’s what he asked us. Steve: Hi, I’m a 68 year old...
The greatest fear in retirement

The greatest fear in retirement

Running out of money – But does it really happen? They say the secret to a happy life is to only worry about the things within our control. This is an even more interesting concept when applied to funding your retirement. What can you control? And what is...
Is it time to rethink cash?

Is it time to rethink cash?

Another rate rise – Is it time to rethink cash? Last Tuesday the Reserve Bank Governor Philip Lowe announced a 50-basis point increase in the official cash rate, raising it from 0.85% to 1.35%. This increase is the third in three months, following those of 0.25%...
Three retirement mistakes to avoid

Three retirement mistakes to avoid

The start of a new financial year is a great time to review strategies and settings in order to maximise your retirement income This week we look at three ‘big dollar’ decisions – and why knowing the detail and/or seeking advice can save you more in the long run. Some...
Negative superannuation returns

Negative superannuation returns

Fifth downturn in 30 years The numbers are in and ‘its not pretty’ said one super fund chief. This is all too true, with Chant West reporting an expected 3.5% drop in super fund balances over the past 12 months. This amount is still an estimate as it takes some funds...
Work bonus update

Work bonus update

How much can you earn? Allowing retirees to earn more, whilst retaining their Age Pension eligibility, is a move that’s gaining momentum. A doubling of the current work bonus, from $7800 per annum to $15,600 without financial penalty has a lot of support. The proposed...
End of Year tax rules for retirees

End of Year tax rules for retirees

Tax rules for retirees Thursday marks the end of financial year 2022. Or the EOFY as it’s now commonly known. Many people assume – incorrectly – that retirees who don’t earn income don’t need to file anything. This is not true. There are two points to make here....