The ATO has highlighted a concerning trend: unauthorised access to superannuation by SMSF members has reached significant levels – $381 million in 2019-20 and $256 million in 2020-21.

SMSFs should not be used as vehicles to access super illegally or provide short-term finance. As the regulator says, illegal early access has serious consequences. It can significantly impact retirement savings and result in additional tax, penalties, interest and even being permanently disqualified from being a trustee.