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Some new comments on the ATO's website have caused some commentators to query whether the ATO has relaxed its position on running a business in a SMSF.
In fact, the ATO's view is consistent with its past musings, and compliance with the relevant super laws remains the key.
Robert GreenSome observers have commented that the ATO may be softening its approach to SMSFs running a business. Their comment is based on a page on the ATO website which states that:
Maddocks considers that — on the information available — the ATO has not changed its view. Incidentally, Maddocks advises that the recent ATO comments do not require a change to the Cleardocs SMSF deed.
The ATO's previous position on SMSFs running a business was summarised in its (now outdated) publication Self Managed Superannuation Funds - Roles and Responsibilities of Trustees:
Importantly, even under this old view of the ATO, the ATO never went so far as to say that SMSFs running a business would contravene the SIS Act or Regulations.
The ATO's current publication Running a self-managed super fund - Your role and responsibilities as a trustee does not contain the above statement. It doesn't discuss SMSF's running a business except to say that:
However, the page on the ATO's website entitled 'Carrying on a business in a self-managed superannuation fund' outlines the ATO's current view on this issue. In short, the ATO's view is that:
This statement is not a green-light for SMSF trustees to start running a business through their SMSFs without regard to the regulatory provisions.
SMSF trustees still need to observe the sole purpose test and the other regulatory provisions including:
It is also worth emphasising that the relevant provisions in the SIS Act have not changed. Also, although some commentators have referred to an ATO ruling, the ATO has in fact not released a ruling on the topic).
Maddocks considers that the broad general powers given to the Trustee under an SMSF deed are sufficient to engage in the activities necessary to run a business. However, any general powers of the trustee are subject to superannuation law generally, including strict compliance with the sole purpose test and the other regulatory provisions.
In any event, Maddocks recommends that you should seek advice before deciding to run a business through an SMSF.
For questions or more information about the above article, please call Maddocks in Melbourne (03 9288 0555) and ask for a member of the Superannuation Team.
You can read other articles concerning superannuation and SMSFs here.
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Qualifications: LLB (Hons), BEc (Hons), Monash University
Leigh is a Partner in Maddocks Tax and Structuring team. Leigh has extensive experience in advising Australian and multinational companies, high net worth individuals, accountants and financial advisers on all areas of taxation law.
Leigh regularly provides advice on:
His advice covers both direct and indirect tax considerations.
Throughout his career, Leigh has been at the forefront in developing tax-effective corporate, trust and superannuation structures.
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