A massive congratulations to our very own Jodie Fletcher who today celebrates 19yrs with the Accountplan group. These days Jodie is one of our most experienced accountants, doubling as our resident specialist in Self-Managed Super Funds. She has certainly come a long way since joining Accountplan as our receptionist straight out of uni. With a…
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Refinancing can be a great way to save money if you believe you are paying too much for your loan, but there is more to it than just finding a loan with a lower interest rate and making the change. Before making the switch, ensure the savings you could make outweigh the fees involved. Here…
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Single Touch Payroll (STP) has been on the radar for small business owners for some time now. First mentioned back in 2014 it wasn’t however until 1 July 2018 that STP was rolled out for employers with 20 or more employees. The rollout now extends to those with 19 or fewer employees as at 1st…
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We are thrilled to introduce Katrina Simkin who recently joined the Accountplan team. Katrina, a Redcliffe local, has 20 years accounting industry experience in both customer facing and management roles. We are looking forward to Katrina’s experience providing much greater capacity in both our Administration and Bookkeeping teams. So please don’t be shy and join…
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Asking how long it takes to get a loan approved is like asking how long a piece of string is. Every application is unique, so the time between your first contact with your bank or broker and approval can never be predetermined exactly. There are, however, some things you can do to help hurry your…
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The Tax Office is set to up its focus on popular car-related claims this tax time, which is set to capture the activity of businesses and their employees. Fringe benefits tax (FBT) is paid by employers on certain benefits they provide to their staff, and often includes allowing the use of a car for private purposes. For…
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Want to get more work done than you can manage, but you can’t afford to hire? Perhaps it’s time to take on strategic business partners. One of the main reasons people start their own business is to be their own boss. As business owners, we like to do things our way and often are happy…
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Are you looking to dive into the wonderful world of entrepreneurship? It’s not easy to start a small business but there are plenty that have gone before you. Before you get your business up and running, it might pay to do a little research, so you can avoid common startup mistakes. Here are five mistakes…
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When selling one property and purchasing another, the funds from the sale may not be available in time to use for the purchase deposit. There are typically two options in this scenario: a bridging loan and a deposit bond. Bridging loan A bridging loan is a short term home loan designed to allow you to…
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Download a copy of our April Newsletter
As widely predicted, the announcement included a range of tax cuts for both individuals and businesses. The Treasurer also announced increased funding for regulators to encourage tax and superannuation compliance, a number of positive changes to superannuation, and an affirmation of previously announced aged care measures. This summary provides coverage of the key issues of…
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New superannuation measures which will enable Australians aged 65 and 66 to be able to make voluntary superannuation contributions has been announced by the Treasurer. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has announced a new measure which will enable Australians approaching their retirement years to make voluntary superannuation contributions, both concessional and non-concessional, without meeting the work test. …
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Having an online presence is vital to ensure that businesses stay relevant in the digital age. For most companies, a simple social media page just doesn’t cut it and a ‘proper’ website is needed. Luckily, as the world embraces the digital age, it’s easier to create a website than ever before. With a huge range…
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What’s The Secret To Buying My First Home? Saving for a home loan or mortgage isn’t glamorous but it has to be done. So here are some savings tips for first home buyers to help get you into the property market. How much should I be saving? One of the first rules of saving is…
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So now you’ve used your business software to produce a Profit & Loss Statement, how do you use that information to your advantage? The first insight you can gain from your Profit and Loss Statement begins by simply looking at the bottom line. Did you make a profit or a loss? Are you making enough?…
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A logo is one of the building blocks of creating a brand. If executed successfully, it can have tremendous impact and influence, helping to take your small business to the next level. As you prepare to get your business off the ground, designing a logo can seem like your last priority. However, once you have…
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In a highly competitive industry, retailers need to remain up-to-date. A retail business won’t thrive unless key areas are met. From making sure you have the right products to a great social media presence, this checklist has it covered. 1. CHECK YOU ARE OFFERING THE RIGHT PRODUCTS Whether your retail business focuses on one primary…
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So it’s nearing the end of June and you might think that it’s too late to do anything to reduce your tax before June 30, right?
Most small businesses now know about the $20,000 tax offset provided by the ATO that was introduced on 12th May 2015. What many of you may not know is that this write off will be reduced to $1,000 from 1st July 2018*
It is fast approaching the 30th of June so now is the time to run through a checklist of what you need to do prior to the end of the financial year.
Finance Friday #8 | Why don’t the banks like investment home loans these days? Why have we seen an increase in home loan rates and what effect has that had? Mick answers these questions and more in this weeks edition of Finance Friday. Why don't the banks like investment home loans these days? Why have…
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Finance Friday #7 | End of financial year express equipment finance What would you spend $150k equipment finance on in your business? End of financial year express equipment finance What would you spend $150k in equipment finance on in your business?Mick Doyle is credit representative 495495 of BLSSA Pty Ltd, ACN117651760 (Australian Credit Licence 391237)…
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Finance Friday #6 | What do lenders look for in a borrower? In this week’s Finance Friday, Mick talks you through what lenders look for in a borrower; the 3c’s of borrowing that can affect a lender’s view of the borrower’s ability to borrow. What do lenders look for in a borrower? In this week's…
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Finance Friday #5 |How Offset Accounts work and the benefits. Offset Accounts are a popular option taken up by many Home Loan borrowers and for good reason. Let start with how they work. Finance Friday #5 | How Offset Accounts work and the benefits. Offset Accounts are a popular option taken up by many Home…
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Tax Tip Tuesday’s With Monique #3 TAX UPDATE: There have been some significant changes to rental property tax deductions since our last rental tax tip video. Here’s all you need to know about these recent tax updates. Changes to rental property deductions, here's what you need to know. TAX UPDATE: There have been some significant…
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Money Monday’s With Monique #3 In line with our upcoming Farm Fantastic expo, this week’s Money Monday is all about, you guessed it, farming! What determines whether it's a hobby farm or a business? In line with our upcoming Farm Fantastic expo, this week's Money Monday is all about, you guessed it, farming! Posted by Accountplan on…
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Finance Friday #4 |When it comes to lending, are all banks the same? When it comes to lending, are all banks the same? The answer is a resounding no and here’s Mick to tell you how and why in this weeks edition of Finance Friday. When it comes to lending, are all banks the same?…
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Tax Tip Tuesday With Monique #2 CALLING ALL RENTAL PROPERTY OWNERS! Are you maximising your tax deductions? Monique’s tax tip this week covers the three types of deductions you can claim on your rental property. What can I claim on my rental property? CALLING ALL RENTAL PROPERTY OWNERS!Are you maximising your tax deductions? Monique's tax…
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Money Monday’s With Monique #2 “I’m retired and receive a pension, do I still have to lodge a tax return?” Retirement and tax return requirements. "I'm retired and receive a pension, do I still have to lodge a tax return?" In this week's Money Monday, Monique answers this popular question. Posted by Accountplan on Monday,…
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Tax Tip Tuesday’s With Monique #1 Can I claim a deduction for carrying my tools? Accountant Monique explains the answer to this common tradie question in this week’s short tax tip video. If you would like to know more about getting your tax sorted, contact us on 3883 8999. TAX TIP TUESDAY'S: Can I claim…
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Money Monday’s With Monique #1 In this first episode of Money Monday’s, Monique answers the popular question – can I claim a laptop or computer for my school children? Money Monday's #1 In this first episode of Money Monday's, Monqiue answers the popular question – can I claim a laptop or computer for my school…
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Download a copy of our February Newsletter
Finance Friday #2 | How do I choose between fixed and variable? In this issue of Finance Friday, Mick Doyle, Accountplan’s Finance Manager, discusses the factors you may take into consideration when deciding between a fixed or variable loan. Accountplan is coming to Farm Fantastic this coming 2nd-4th March, at Caboolture showground. If you have any questions…
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Accountplan is pleased to announce our affiliation with local insurance broker Kellie Phillips of the Australian Elite Insurance Solutions (AEIS).
You reap what you sow, or so the saying goes, but do you ever feel like what you put in just doesn’t amount to what you get out? Whether you’re visiting Farm Fantastic as a keen gardener, hobby farmer or agricultural guru, getting the right advice on your accounting, tax and finance matters can see…
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Google’s 2017 year in search video was the inspiration behind this months newsletter, with ‘search on’ becoming the message we want to deliver. Continually striving to learn and better ourselves, both in our professional and personal lives, is a lifelong lesson and journey. Keep asking questions and never stop learning because where would we be…
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Our first episode of FINANCE FRIDAY is here and Mick Doyle, Accountplan‘s Finance Manager, talks you through the differences between fixed and variable rates, looking to answer the question – fixed vs variable rates, which is better? Accountplan is coming to Farm Fantastic this coming 2nd-4th March, at Caboolture showground. If you have any questions about your home…
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Download a copy of our January Newsletter
ATO READY, AIM, FIRE. The new year brings businesses the opportunity to review past performance, set new targets and make action plans for the year ahead. The Australian Tax Office (ATO) is no different and Australian Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan has given the Chartered Accountants publication, Acuity, a first-hand account of the targets and action…
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From the 2nd – 4th March we’ll be attending the annual Farm Fantastic Expo at the Caboolture showground.
Download a copy of our December Newsletter
NEW OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD WEALTH The 1 July 2017 super reforms have opened up a fantastic new opportunity to build wealth in super and reduce your tax bill at the same time. That is, it’s now easier to claim a tax deduction on your personal super contributions than ever before.
Giving a child a good education is one of the best things you can do as a parent or grandparent. But what if you weren’t around to help make it happen? Fortunately, you can put plans in place in your Will to make sure your children’s or grandchildren’s inheritance goes towards their education.
An ASIC registration is no guarantee Every business owner understands how critical their trading name is in distinguishing their business, products, services and brand from competitors. What many seem to have lost sight of, however, is how vulnerable that name can be, even if it’s registered with ASIC.
Whether you’re looking for a holiday away from the daily grind or a longer adventure as part of your retirement plans exploring this great southern land is a must. From the aqua blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the breathtaking burnt red of our rich, dusty centre, caravanning is a great way to…
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From all of us here in the Accountplan team, we’d like to thank you for your support this year. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year and look forward to working with you in 2018. CHRISTMAS CLOSURE DATES Accountplan will be closed from Friday 22nd December, returning for the…
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Download a copy of our November Newsletter
Why would your Accountant be suggesting that you also work with a bookkeeper? Surely your Accountant is looking to save you money, not recommending you add in another cost to managing your financials? But adding a Bookkeeper like Warren to your business support team will actually save you money.
Using a mortgage broker to help you choose a home loan can save you considerable time and could result in huge savings. However, before you decide on a broker, you need to make sure they’re going to meet your needs. Here are 10 questions to ask and how our Finance & Mortgage Broker, Mick Doyle,…
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Are your purchases costing you more than you expected? Managing debt and finances to meet your day-to-day requirements as well as your long-term goals can be a complex task. Not all debt is bad, but understanding your level of debt, as well as the type of debt incurred, will help you manage it better. Borrowing…
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Do you own your own business? The hair salon of your dreams, the plumbing service you knew you could do better or the business coaching consultancy that you’ve been wanting to run for years? Now, do you work with a bookkeeper? Running a business is harder than it seems and more work than every business owner…
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Download a copy of our October Newsletter
The 1 July 2017 superannuation reforms introduced a new reporting regime for funds. Funds now need to advise the ATO of key events within the fund that impact on retirement income streams (pensions):
A good mortgage broker can be the key to your property portfolio success. Here’s seven things to look for when choosing your broker. When it comes to one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, it pays to have some professional help. But how do you find a good mortgage broker, and what can…
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Are you the ‘better safe than sorry’ or a ‘she’ll be alright’ type when it comes to insurance? Many people view insurance protection as a ‘waste of money’ or ‘an ongoing cost that you don’t get anything back from’? Shockingly, many people are more likely to insure their car than they are their lives.
Here’s a recipe for a basic financial plan: Take one or more income sources and pour into a big pot. Add appropriate amounts of life, income protection and permanent disability insurance. Simmer for a few decades while slowly adding superannuation contributions and a dollop of non-super savings. Stir in some constructive debt, but take care…
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Download a copy of our September Newsletter
Self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) open up a whole new world of investment opportunities for your retirement savings, including direct property. But what if you simply don’t have enough money in super to buy an asset outright?
A home loan is generally a long-term proposition, but in some situations it can make sense to refinance your mortgage. Read this guide to the refinancing process, and speak to your broker, before deciding whether it’s right for you. Refinancing involves taking out a new mortgage and using those funds to pay off your existing…
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And give you great flexibility. It’s often said that Australians are more likely to divorce their spouse than switch banks. But with plenty of competition in the home loan sector, refinancing can be a good move.
Wondering how to pay off your home loan sooner? We look at some smart tips for paying off your home loan sooner. Australian home loan interest rates remain at historic lows, and the opportunities for paying off a mortgage early are better than ever. Used in conjunction with low rates, here are some extra steps…
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The “downsizer contribution” is proposed to allow individuals to contribute up to $300k of the proceeds from the sale of a residence owned by a person or their spouse to their Super. The property must be located in Australia and have been owned by the individual, their spouse or former spouse for at least a…
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It’s true the method used to arrive at a credit decision by lenders, for a finance application, will differ from bank to bank. It’s also true that the method will differ greatly depending on the type of finance (or loan) being sought. The greatest truth however is that all methods are based on, or derived…
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There are many reasons to consider setting up a family trust but it is important to understand what they are and what benefits they can provide before making the move.
Download a copy of our August Newsletter
Beat the urge to splurge The urge to buy something on impulse can be strong for a lot of reasons – it’s a bargain, you deserve it, or just because it’s right there. However, impulse buying can become a problem if it means you spend more than you earn. Here are our tips on how…
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Over the last 6-12mths we have seen dramatic movements in Home Loans rates, both up and down, and all movements have been independent of any changes to the official rates by the Reserve Bank. Why ??
For Individuals The ATO is increasing their audit focus on the following areas:
Download a copy of our July Newsletter
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It is fast approaching the 30th of June so now is the time to run through a checklist of what you need to do prior to the end of the financial year.
One of the more common strategies used by business owners to reduce tax is to purchase a car before the end of the financial year. This often sees lenders completing up to 1/3 of their entire year’s vehicle finance budget in the last 6 weeks of the financial year. Thankfully the last minute stress and…
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So it’s the first week of June and you’re probably thinking that it’s too late to do anything material to reduce your tax before June 30. Right?? Wrong!! It’s both obvious and true that like any other life endeavour nothing usually beats a combination of great advice followed by a commitment to work to a…
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