What makes us change? Why do we resist making improvements in our lives? Often you know you should take some action but … but … there is always a reason not to.

Let’s take an example

You’ve had a few jobs over the years and been paid superannuation during each one. You have a number of super funds and you forget all about them until the annual statements arrive by mail or pop up in your inbox. Now you feel worried and confused. What does it all mean? Have I got them all? Is my money still safe? Am I paying for multiple insurance policies? What should I do with all this paperwork? And the worst one – am I paying too much in fees?

The usual option is to simply put them into your “too hard folder” and forget about it until next year… and then you go through all that confusion again!

But there is a better way and if you act now you can sort it all out and potentially save a lot of money!

Here is a five-step process to help you on your way:

Step 1 – collect all the superannuation statements you can find from your “bottom drawer” or print the latest from each of your online accounts.

Step 2 – make a time to meet with your financial adviser to go through the paperwork.

Step 3 – seek advice and select one superannuation fund that suits your needs.

Step 4 – sign transfer forms so your adviser can get the accounts rolled over to your chosen fund.

Step 5 – relax knowing that your super is all in one place.

Seriously, superannuation is too important to ignore. Getting your super under control can save you money in fees, cut down on paperwork, allow you to get an investment strategy in place, and help you keep track of your money.

The Australian Securities and Investment Commission reports that there are billions of dollars sitting in unclaimed or “lost” superannuation accounts with thousands more accounts added to the list each month. Inactive accounts with balances of less than $6,000 are transferred into the federal government’s consolidated revenue fund, so if you think you might have some old superannuation accounts that you haven’t touched in three years, don’t hand it over the government, claim it!

Visit the ATO website at www.gov.au for more information or check your MyGov account at www.my.gov.au.

For more information:

www.ato.gov.au/superfunds; Unclaimed super – Types of unclaimed super

MyGov www.my.gov.au

ASIC MoneySmart website www.moneysmart.gov.au Find Unclaimed Money

Bottrell Wealth

Bottrell Wealth are expert financial planners, with a vast array of experience with businesses of all shapes and sizes. Our knowledge extends past financial planning into, accounting, taxation, marketing and recruitment. With over 20 years dealing with businesses and individuals, Bottrell Wealth can help you reach your goals!

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