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Downsizer contributions

Section: 2.12

2.12 Downsizer contributions

Key points

  • Members aged 55 years and over can make superannuation contributions of up to $300,000 from the proceeds of selling their home
  • The downsizer contributions are not included as non-concessional contributions and will not affect any contribution caps
  • The downsizer contributions can still be made even if an individual's total super balance is greater than $1.9 million*
  • The sale of any dwelling in Australia (other than a caravan, houseboat or mobile home) can qualify the member to make a contribution, as long as they have owned the dwelling for at least 10 years
  • Both members of a couple will be entitled to take advantage of downsizer contributions.

Requirements

Requirements to make the downsizer contribution are:
 
  • the contract for sale must be entered into on or after 1 July 2018
 
  • the contribution must be made from the capital proceeds of disposal of a property located in Australia
 
  • the member or their spouse must have owned the property for 10 years or more
 
  • the member or their spouse must be eligible for a main residence CGT exemption (full or partial)
 
  • the member must be aged 55 or over at the time the contribution is made*
 
  • the maximum contribution amount is $300,000 per member
 
  • the contribution must be made within 90 days of the change of ownership; generally the date of settlement. An extension can be applied for in some limited circumstances.
 
  • the ATO election form must be used to have the contribution treated as a downsizer contribution at the time the contribution is made (cannot apply to contributions retrospectively)
 

*The total super balanced was indexed by $200,00 to $1.9 million on 1 July 2023, up from $1.7million.

This technical resource is intended for the use of financial advisers only. It is current as at the date of publication but may be subject to change. This publication has been prepared without taking into account a potential investor's objectives, financial situation, needs or objectives. Before making a recommendation based on this material, you should consider its appropriateness based on the client's objectives, financial situation and needs. Rainmaker Group is not a registered tax agent under the Tax Agent Services Act 2009. Your client should refer to a registered tax agent before relying on information published herein that may impact their tax obligations, liabilities or entitlements.

Last modified: Wednesday, June 28, 2023