7 superannuation New Year resolutions
We’re used to making New Years resolutions on many things – have you thought about turning the magnifying glass on your super for 2015? Here are some ideas to kick off the New Year being financially prepared.
Don’t ignore it! – Many people resolve to run the ruler over their health at the start of each year. Do the same for your super and general finances and conduct a financial health check. Review your spending patterns to see where you can save more money. Consider making an appointment with a financial adviser to really put your finances through their paces.
Consolidating your super –If you’ve had more than one job during your career, you’ll possibly have more than one super fund. Each of these funds will have a separate set of fees attached to them, so it makes sense to consolidate where you can. It’s a simple process to both track lost super funds and consolidate them via the ATO website.
Save more – Don’t just commit to saving more for a rainy day. Commit to contributing a little extra to your superannuation in 2015 so you have more money come rain, hail or shine in the years to come. Through the power of compound interest, adding extra dollars to your superannuation now will mean having so much more to fund your lifestyle when you retire if you haven’t already.
Review your asset mix – The New Year is also a good opportunity to review your investment options. It’s worth regularly reviewing your mix of growth and defensive assets in your portfolio to ensure they always reflect your stage in life and are in line with your goals.
Insurance – It’s also worthwhile reviewing and updating your insurance, through your super if necessary, to keep it in line with any changing circumstances and ensure your premiums are minimised.
Beneficiaries – Have you got beneficiaries for your super nominated and are their details current? You may wish to review this to ensure the right people are included. Keep in mind that if they are binding beneficiaries, details must usually be updated every two to three years.
Invest in yourself and read widely – Financial education is becoming more accessible and investing in yourself such as through making time to learn more is one of the best ways to help you achieve your financial goals through your super. There is a lot of valuable information available online so consider adding a few wealth management websites, blogs and books to your holiday reading.