Choosing to make personal super contributions
If you're self-employed as a sole trader or in a partnership, you don't have to pay super guarantee for yourself.
You can choose to make personal super contributions to save for your retirement.
Make sure your super fund has your tax file number (TFN). If not:
- contributions are taxed an additional 32%
- your fund may not accept personal contributions
- you may miss out on a super co-contribution, if eligible
- it will be harder to keep track of your super.
Personal super contributions
You can choose to make personal super contributions from your after-tax income. For example, you can contribute directly from your bank account to your super fund.
Most people can claim a tax deduction for personal super contributions until they turn 75 years old.
Contributions you make may attract extra tax if they exceed the contribution cap for that year.
Super co-contribution
You may also be eligible for the super co-contribution, which helps eligible low-to-middle income earners save for their retirement.
If you're eligible and you make personal super contributions, the government will match your contribution up to certain limits. You don't have to apply. We will work out your co-contributions when you lodge your tax return.
If you claim a tax deduction for your personal super contribution, it's not eligible for a co-contribution.