You will be aware of the severe bush fires in Victoria that have seen an unprecented loss of life and property. New South Wales has also suffered from bush fire damage in recent weeks. If you are in a bush fire prone zone, are your prepared?
The Australian Taxation Office [ATO] has implemented a new electronic calendar to help small business keep on track with their tax returns and payments.
An important component of any financial plan.
With financial markets remaining in a state of turmoil, where’s a good place to park your surplus cash and ongoing savings?
As we have done in previous issues, we have again provided a couple of general insurance claims stories to help you be aware of different issues that may affect your general insurance policies. Don't leave it to chance - make sure you have insurance cover!
Many clients do not realise that superannuation benefits do not necessarily form part of their estate upon death.
Estate planning concerns the effective transfer of wealth from one generation to the next. An effective plan will ensure that assets pass to the intended beneficiaries in a way that will meet the desires of the deceased, the needs of the beneficiaries, and minimise any tax burden.
It is not just older Australians who need to understand how aged care works – anyone with aging parents may find themselves having to understand a complex system at very short notice.
Many self-employed people overlook the value of the businesses they create, but with a bit of prior planning, some of this value can be released at retirement.
If you are paying too much tax on your investments because you are not able to contribute money to superannuation due to age or contribution limits, or need an investment outside of super that is tax effective for a child savings plan or want to set up an inheritance for someone ………………
Over the past weeks, global markets have been again impacted by the continuing losses and liquidity pressures being suffered by major American financial institutions. There have been a number of announcements by major financial institutions in the US regarding big losses. Following these announcements the Australian stockmarket dropped in mid September before gaining again around 22 September 2008.
Dual Australia has confirmed that by far the majority of claims that have been received under their Management Liability policy has been in relation to the Crime Insuring clause, and two recent surveys has also shown the increase in fraud claims.
The Federal Government has accounced that the First home saver accounts would be available from 1 October 2008. They offer a way of saving for a first home through a combination of government and contributions and concessional tax rates.
With the end of the current financial year in our sights, it is a good time to remind you of matters you need to consider before 30 June 2008.
Starting a new job is an exciting, scary and busy time. The Australian workforce is more mobile than ever and the Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that about 1.8 million people change jobs every year. Whilst doing so it is important not to neglect your superannuation.
Your last will and testament sets out how everything you own will be distributed when you die. Who will get the grandfather clock? Who will get grandma’s jewellery? Your will appoints an executor to administer your estate. They will hold your assets in trust on behalf of your beneficiaries. The executor will collect all your assets, pay any debts, lodge your final tax return and distribute the remaining assets according to the will.
Building a financial plan without adequate insurance is like building a house on flimsy foundations. Comprehensive insurance cover can be a significant expense. However, the out of pocket cost of insurance can be reduced by taking advantages of the tax deductions that apply to specific types of insurance, and to some methods of implementing insurance.
Federal Government Statistics of businesses involved in a major Material Damage Loss.
People continue to work after Age Pension Age for a wide range of reasons. Does this mean that they are not entitled to a Centrelink benefit?
Rising living costs and the possibility of an increase in interest rates has debt counsellors talking about ‘mortgage stress’.
From 12 December 2007 the new Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing [AML/CTF regulations come into force. What does this mean for you?
Important changes to paying your insurance
After many years of Jim Taggart trying to convince his daughter Melinda to join him in his business, Melinda has finally made the move from her career in Property and has recently joined Taggart Nominees.
Many Australians have already discovered how a regular gearing plan can grow wealth even faster.
Have you ever wondered why you never see Santa Claus leaving presents under your Christmas tree? When we were young the gifts appeared like magic and even now you are older it is still important to believe in this magic.
Try the quiz below and see how you compare to the results of a recent survey conducted by the Investment and Financial Services Association (IFSA).
You will be aware that all new homes built in NSW must now have a smoke alarm installed. Were you aware of the consequences of not having a smoke alarm if you are considering selling your home?
If you are looking at buying or selling a business, or may do so in the future, you will be involved in what is called the Due Diligence process before the sale is complete. Due diligence is part of the sale process of every business sale or purchase regardless of the business size.
In our last newsletter we talked about the recent announcements relating the Apprentice Scheme. We elaborate further on the recent workers compensation announcements in this article.
On 8 May 2007 the Federal Treasurer, Mr Peter Costello, introduced his 12th Federal Budget which includes a number of changes to taxation, superannuation and social security. The Taggart 2007 Budget Update provides a summary of the major announcements in that Budget report.
From 1 July 2007 the rules will change on what happens if you do not notify your super fund or risk insurance company of your tax file number or exemption. If you do not receive something directly from your super fund or insurance company in the coming weeks you should contact them BEFORE 30 June 2007 about this important matter.
Statutory fines and penalties, and the associated investigation & defence costs can be quite large and may severley impact you and your business. However protection is available. It's called Statutory Liability Insurance.
According to marketing gurus twenty year olds are fast learners, practical, enterprising and sociable. Financially they do not understand the idea of short-term sacrifice for long-tern gain – they want it all now. Whether this is true or not, looking after money is important. Could these examples be you?
The holidays are over but will 2007 be different financially for you? You can be sure that if you do what you did in 2006, this year will be much the same. Here are ten tips so that next Christmas you can look back with pride at your accomplishments.
Did you know that effective from 31 December 2007, wages paid to apprentices registered in NSW will be exempt for the purpose of calculating Workers Compensation premiums.
With the ever increasing personal and commercial finance options available on the market, it is a good time to be taking a few minutes to see if your current home, investment or commercial loan is still appropriate. Complete the following check list and contact us for a review.
As part of the 2006 Budget, the Government has released a plan to simplify and streamline superannuation. Many of the changes were legislated at the end of 2006, and some proposals are still out standing. Most changes take effect from 1 July 2007.
The Government's new superannuation rules mean high income earners may be better of salary sacrificing into super rather than making capital repayments on their home loan.
A Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) describes the product features, together with a summary of the significant benefits, risks and the costs associated with that product.
This year there have been significan reforms related to the premiums for the NSW WorkCover Scheme. This article provides a snapshot of those reforms, which apply to NSW only.
Salary sacrifice can be a smart way to boost your super benefit. When you sacrifice some of your salary to super, you not only increase the amount of dollars you will have in retirement, but you can reduce the income tax you have to pay now.
With the federal budget now a few weeks old and after much discussion. What does it all mean? We would like to provide you with some things to consider regarding the key changes.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not simply the process of investment selection.
Federal Government Statistics of businesses involved in a major Material Damage Loss.
As a Major sponsor of the very successful Hills Business Expo recently held in the Atrium at Castle Hill RSL many existing and new clients visited our stand.
Approximately 25 people braved the cold to attend the Taggart networking function and business seminar recently held in conjunction with Barrie Gaubert of the Iden Group.
There has been much discussion in the media in the last 12 months or so on the under-insurance situation in Australia. The following article may help in your decision when discussing your insurance cover with your broker.
Financial Adviser for Taggart Nominees Daniel Musumeci marries Tracey Smith.
Taggart host breakfast seminar in conjunction with the Hills Chamber of Commerce.
The government is continually looking for ways to increase incentives for people to boost their superannuation and their latest example of this is the introduction of “Super Splitting”!
The Taggart group invite you to one of their renowned networking opportunities co hosted by Lesley & Clayton Pine.
The following are two examples of machinery break down/electronic equipment that would not be covered under a fire & perils policy. Should you have any machinery and equipment that you may consider worth insuring contact us.
An initiative of the Taggart group for 2006 is their boardroom series luncheons. A great opportunity for new business to meet and network over lunch in a stimulating yet relaxed environment.
In addition to the spiritual meaning of Easter, it has also become a time for the giving of Chocolate. For lovers of chocolate, we have provided some interesting facts on Chocolate in our story.
Andrea Mansfield has joined Taggarts as Events Coordinator.
Tuesday 23 May - Wexford Room Castle Grand, Castle Hill 5.30 - 8pm refreshments served contact Andrea to reserve your place on (02)8858 0013.
In this edition we continue with our articles on Safety, Risk Management and General matters which should assist you when you are considering your general insurance requirements.
Following on from our last newsletter where we talked about CHP's and Chattel Mortgages, in this edition we discuss Leases and Novated Leases.
We commenced our 4 part series on General Insurance Tips & Traps in our last newsletter for 2005. In this edition we continue with the series, discussing safety, issues relative to small businesses and general tips and traps.
Increasing insurance costs can put a strain on your business's cashflow, especially if you have to pay the premiums as a lump sum. But there is a more strategic way to make these payments that improves cashflow management. It's called Premium Funding.
You might never notice the technology your business relies on until something goes wrong. This article talks about the importance of protecting your business against Equipment Breakdown.
In our last newsletter we advised that The Taggart Group Finance Division was up and running, and since then we have helped a number of our existing clients arrange for new home loans, changes to existing home loans, and leasing and CHP finance.
In this newsletter, and our next newsletter, we will be talking about the different types of equipment finance. Many of our clients already have finance in place for their motor vehicles, business use equipment etc. However, we are quite often asked for the difference between the finance products, so we will be giving you an overview of these products in these newsletters.
In November 2005, Jim Taggart was awarded with the prestigious 2005 Zurich/AFA Adviser of the Year prize.
In our last newsletter we advised that The Taggart Group Finance Division was up and running, and since then we have helped a number of our existing clients arrange for new home loans, changes to existing home loans, and leasing and CHP finance.
Beginning in this edition of our newsletter, we will be providing a 4 part series of Tips & Traps relating to Risk Management,Safety and other matters relating to General Insurance.
We have recently been made aware of certain general insurance companies imposing strict duty of disclosure policy conditions when assessing claims; particulary for motor vehicle claims.
There are several ways you can contribute to your super and Salary Sacrificing is one way that could provide you with a significant reduction to your tax liability.
Taking out Total & Permanent Disablement (TPD) insurance through superannuation can be a very cost effective strategy to claim a tax deduction, or to ensure that premiums are not paid from your ‘pocket’. But many are unaware of the disadvantages that this may cause.
Selecting the right home loan can help you own your home or investment property faster. To ensure that your home loan is both competitive and appropriate to your needs, The Taggart Group Finance Division recently reviewed the home loan market and has selected the most appropriate mortgages to recommend to clients.
This is our first article in our 4 part series on Risk Management, Safety and other tips & traps when considering general insurance cover. Our main focus in these articles is for your business insurance, however, our tips and traps can be used around the home as well.
There are approximately 800,000 small businesses in Australia. The number of businesses with no insurance of any kind is estimated to be around 120,000 or 15%. For many small business people, the lack of proper and full insurance can result in failure of their companies.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is actively conducting audits in a number of areas. Below is an outline of the main areas the ATO is currently focusing on.
Domestic Trade Credit Insurance is a little known General Insurance product which is designed to protect businesses against bad debts.
With changes to the reporting requirements the Australian Taxation Office has released answers to some frequently asked questions.
One trend that has eased the administrative burden for investors and their financial planners has been the growth of wrap accounts and master trusts.
As of July 1, 2005 your employees, in most cases, will have the right to choose their own superannuation fund.
It’s a fact that most of us don’t put much thought into life insurance. If we have it at all it tends to for a minimal amount meaning that we are under insured and if something happens to us, our dependents will struggle to cope financially.
Please be aware of the following changes to the current Family Tax Benefit...
Directors & Officers (D&O) Liability insurance is a general insurance product designed to protect individual directors and officers against legal costs and possible damages if it is alleged wrongful acts may have occured whilst they acted as a director or officer of a company.
The High Court have ruled in favour of the Tax Commissioner when it found that a couple who entered into a split loan facility did so for the dominant purpose of obtaining a tax benefit.
Although Self Managed Super Funds are an excellent vehicle in which to manage ones retirement nest egg, there are certain factors that should be considered before setting up the fund.
The Taggart Group Pty Ltd and Taggart Nominees Pty Ltd have both been granted Australian Financial Services Licences.
Answer: The Taggart Group Finance Division Pty Ltd!
What benefits would I receive if I was totally unfit for work?
When looking at borrowing, you will need to choose between a fixed or variable interest rate. The following information should help you make this decision.
If either you and / or your partner were unable to work for an extended period of time, how would it change your lifestyle?
Have you ever had to make an insurance claim before? The following claims made by individuals are real and quite funny to read.
No matter what business you are in, at some stage you will be in a negotiating situation. Here are some thoughts to help you with this important aspect of business management.
If you think the chances of contracting a critical illness are slight, the statistics tell a different story. One in three men and one in four women will contract cancer in their life (Victoria Cancer Registry, 1997). While there is little to alleviate the acute anxiety of such an event, there is a way to avoid the financial stress that comes with serious illness.
Most credit managers are familiar with credit insurance for export trade, but most credit insurance is now used for domestic transactions and can provide real protection for your bottom line.
The following contains general information only on the updated figures and rates of things such as Personal Tax Rates; Maximum Deductible Contributions; Superannuation Surcharge Thresholds; and Reasonable Benefit Limits.
If you or your clients can claim a tax deduction for home office expenses as part of business or employment related expenses, the ATO have put a very useful home office calculator on their website (www.ato.gov.au).
The Federal Court has rejected a taxpayers claim that a settlement amount received following an unfair dismissal action was a payment for personal injury or a bona fide redundancy payment. Rather, the Court held that the payment was an ordinary eligible termination payment (ETP).
Do you know where all your money is going? Debts can accrue quickly and easily if they are not properly maintained. Most people do not know that there are simple and inexpensive ways to save thousands of dollars on your existing debts.
Changing investment strategies based on the past performance of a particular investment can be a buy-high strategy that could leave you with disappointing investment returns.
A professional indemnity policy covers costs and expenses incurred as well as providing protection for the professional negligence of a person.
Personal financial planning is a key ingredient to achieving your goals and plays an important role in achieving financial harmony in any relationship. Here are ten tips to get you started.
The ability to earn an income influences the quality and direction of our lives. Such important matters as our mortgage repayments, children’s education and daily living expenses are all directly related to that weekly, fortnightly or monthly pay cheque. This brief paper is an attempt to highlight some major factors to consider when thinking about income protection...
Running a business today is no easy task. There are many costs that a business needs to cover whether profit is being made or not. The purpose of this brief article is to provide an overview of one of the most important areas and yet least well understood types of insurance called “Business Overheads”.
Fee insurance covers external professional fees incurred by an insured party to respond to or defend any form of audit or investigation undertaken against statutory returns lodged for insured financial year(s)...
We would like to thank all those who participated in this competition. We received many ideas with which many were quite appreciated. It was quite difficult in determining the eventual three winners...
From 1st July 2003, there are important changes to Superannuation Guarantee contributions. These changes include...
They say a rising tide lifts all boats. It's only true if your boat isn't swamped by a wave.
The Taggart Group is in the process of making some changes to the website (www.taggartgroup.com.au). We are seeking ideas from our clients and associates. As an incentive, prizes will be awarded for the best ideas submitted. Prizes include...
Income Protection insurance should be seriously considered as part of your total personal insurance package - because your income may stop but your expenses wont. The benefits of income protection insurance includes...
The Taggart Group offers products and services including: commercial insurance, risk products, domestic insurance and financial planning.
It is important to keep an eye on your expenses, no matter what stage of life you are at. We have attached a Budget Planner and a Financial Position Analysis for your information. Take the time to fill in the details and find out if you have any surplus or deficit funds to work with.
You're talented, confident, and ambitious. Perhaps you're thinking of going out on your own, maybe testing the waters first with just an occasional moonlighting project…or full-time together with a couple of partners. Either way, you should consider several types of insurance as a starting point for your business.
Allocated pensions – and allocated annuities – are investments for your superannuation savings that provide you with a flexible, regular income when you retire.
By understanding the different types of risk and keeping an eye on your investments, you may be able to manage your money more effectively.
Most companies have at least one employee who is key to the success of the business. Whether it's the owner, a partner, a majority stockholder or someone with a high level of expertise, the loss or death of that person could mean financial ruin for the company.
When you obtain a renewal for your insurance please ensure that you contact us if your situation changes in your business or personal lives.
We would like to advise all our small business clients that from July 1, 2003 you will be required to make your Superannuation Guarantee contributions on at least a quarterly basis for eligible employees.
Property owners without adequate public liability insurance could face financial ruin if visitors or tradespeople are injured on their property.
What can you do to alleviate risk and therefore possible future insurance cost increases?
Spouse super becomes very important as retirement approaches. You should make yourself aware of tax benefits at the contribution stage and then further tax benefits down the track.
When you’re walking out of your job on that last day – where you put the money you receive may not be uppermost in your thoughts. You want to make sure the cheques are safely in your pocket or handbag and you deposit them somewhere quickly, but often you haven’t thought about the tax implications of simply taking receipt of them from your soon to be ex-employer.
Pre-retirees should be careful when considering lifetime complying super pensions if they are trying to use them as a strategy to claim Centrelink benefits.
It doesn’t take long for expenses such as mortgages and school fees to build up if your income is cut off and research has shown that most of us could probably only last one or two months without income before hardship sets in.
Pre-retirees should be careful when considering lifetime complying super pensions if they are trying to use them as a strategy to claim Centrelink benefits.
When you’re walking out of your job on that last day – where you put the money you receive may not be uppermost in your thoughts. You want to make sure the cheques are safely in your pocket or handbag and you deposit them somewhere quickly, but often you haven’t thought about the tax implications of simply taking receipt of them from your soon to be ex-employer.
Spouse super becomes very important as retirement approaches. You should make yourself aware of tax benefits at the contribution stage and then further tax benefits down the track.
What can you do to alleviate risk and therefore possible future insurance cost increases?
Property owners without adequate public liability insurance could face financial ruin if visitors or tradespeople are injured on their property.
If yes you should be thinking about where all your superannuation is located.
Insurance plays a very important role in making sure you meet your financial goals, are you adequately covered ?
Contrary to popular belief, it is not simply the process of investment selection. In fact, this is one of the last components of a comprehensive and all encompassing process.
There is more involved than simply spreading investments across the major asset classes. What is your investment style ?
With many global markets around the world trading at levels not seen since the wake of last years terrorist attacks in the US, investors with exposure to equities are watching a decline in the capital value of their investments......
The Act will affect many providers in the financial services industry with some operators having to change their business to comply.
The Premier of NSW, Mr Bob Carr, said the second stage of the NSW Government's public liability reforms which involve a fundamental re-writing of the law of negligence.
The number of high profile corporate failures in the past 12 months has brought the issue of directors and company officers’ personal liability for those companies debts into the limelight. We are pleased to provide you with some thoughts on Directors and Officers Insurance.
As the end of the financial year approaches, many people can get anxious about reducing their tax. If this applies to you, ensure that you give yourself time to do your homework. Resist pressure from sales people especially if you are borrowing money.
The number of people electing to set up and manage their own super funds has grown in recent years. For those of you contemplating this course of action, there are a number of trust law and legislative requirements
Estate planning is an extremely important yet complex subject. It is imperative that you protect your loved ones while you are still healthy.