Calculators
SMSF cost comparison calculator
Compare what an SMSF would cost to run at your balance with the administration fees in your current industry or retail fund, and see where the break-even point is.
This calculator gives an estimate only, based on the figures you enter and the assumptions described on this page. It isn’t financial, credit or tax advice and doesn’t take your circumstances into account. Talk to us before making a decision.
How it works
The SMSF cost is our fixed administration fee for the phase you choose, including GST, plus the ATO supervisory levy and any other costs you enter. The current fund cost is the percentage admin fee on your balance plus any fixed fee per member. Check your fund’s annual statement or product disclosure statement for its actual fees; the defaults here are examples only, not any particular fund’s fees.
Investment costs depend on what you invest in. In a large fund they’re the fees for your investment option; in an SMSF, direct shares and term deposits cost very little, while ETFs and managed funds carry their own fees. The ATO levy shown is an estimate [check: confirm the current ATO supervisory levy].
More than cost
An SMSF suits people who want control and are prepared to take on trustee responsibilities. See is an SMSF right for you? and our SMSF service, from $295 + GST a month, with setup currently $0.
Frequently asked questions
At what balance does an SMSF become cost-effective?
It depends on what your current fund charges and how you’d invest in the SMSF. An SMSF’s costs are mostly fixed, while a large fund’s fees are mostly a percentage of your balance, so the SMSF gets relatively cheaper as the balance grows. Use the calculator with your fund’s actual fees to find your break-even point.
What costs does this include?
For the SMSF: our administration fee (accounts, tax return, audit, minutes and member statements), the ATO supervisory levy, investment costs and any other costs you enter, such as a platform or corporate trustee fees. For the large fund: the administration and investment fees you enter from its statement or product disclosure statement.
Is cost the only thing that matters?
No. An SMSF gives you control and options like holding business property, but comes with trustee responsibilities. Insurance inside large funds can also be cheaper. See our article on whether an SMSF is right for you.
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