Welcome to the Spring edition of Haven

As we emerge from the hibernation of winter months, I hope you’re feeling spring in the air in your hood.

Are you looking to refinance soon? With most lenders looking at your last three months of financial activity to access your ability to repay a loan, we’ve got some hints and tips to make sure your finances are looking ship-shape when it’s time to refinance.

Super contribution rules when you’re in your 60s and 70s

Super contribution rules when you’re in your 60s and 70s Know your options around making contributions, accessing your super savings and when Age Pension entitlements could be affected. Whether you’re still working, or you’ve already retired, rules around super contributions, accessing super and things like age pension eligibility do ramp up once you hit your 60s and 70s. There have also been a lot of rule changes in the super space, including some around age …

Is my employer paying me the right super?

Is my employer paying me the right super? Billions of dollars in super contributions go unpaid every year. Here’s how you can find out if you’re getting paid what you’re owed and what you can do if you’re not. A while back, a mate of mine posted on social media that she was owed over $10,000 in super from a former employer, who had since shut up shop (money she may never see when she …

Should you merge your finances with your partner? | Money & Life

Should you merge your finances with your partner? If you’re in a relationship, it can be tricky to work out when to start sharing income and expenses. Here are a few ways to successfully merge money as a couple. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of our daily lives, and romance is no exception. While lengthy separations have led some relationships to end, other couples are choosing to move in together more quickly than …

How to get help with your bills during COVID-19 | Money & Life

How to get help with your bills during COVID-19 If you’re one of thousands of people who has lost income due to COVID-19, you might be finding it hard to pay your bills. Here are some tips to help you get back on track. As COVID-19 lockdowns continue across much of eastern Australia, many people have once again found themselves out of work. Those working in service industries, and casual workers in particular, are doing …

The Work Test And Work Test Exemption Explained

The work test and work test exemption explained If you’re aged 67 to 74 and want to make voluntary super contributions, you must meet a work test, unless you qualify for an exemption. See what you need to know. If you’re an older Aussie looking to make super contributions, you may have noticed more rules begin to apply as the years go on. If you’ve heard people talk about the work test and work test …

Navigating your tax return for 2021 | Money & Life

Navigating your tax return for 2021 Do you want to get more from your tax return this financial year, but you’re not sure where to start? It could be as simple as knowing which tax deductions and offsets you’re eligible for. With the end of financial year fast approaching, you might be hoping to claw back some of your hard earned cash when you lodge your tax return this year. The Australian Taxation Office refunds billions …

Relationship break-up entitlements when you’re in a de facto

Relationship break-up entitlements when you’re in a de facto If you’re wondering who’ll get the home you’re currently living in, the car, or boat if you have one, we answer some of the commonly asked questions, so you’re across your rights and responsibilities. If you’ve recently split from your partner or are simply wondering what might happen if you do, you’ll need to keep your financial wits about you. A division of assets and debts, …

Budgeting tips for students

Budgeting tips for students Starting or returning to study is an exciting time! But let’s be real, unless you’re also working full time, you’ll have less income while you complete your studies. That’s where a little planning can help make the most of your student budget. Surviving on a student budget isn’t easy, but don’t worry, it can be done. Whether you’re studying remotely this year, or returning to campus, we have some great tips …

Show your finances some self-love

Show your finances some self-love Are you guilty of changing your spending habits when you’re in a relationship? Do you have a financial plan, or are you relying on a partner to take care of you in retirement? Whatever your situation, there’s never been a better time to step up and take charge of your finances. Your relationship status can have a big impact on your finances. From spending and managing your money, to the …