Check the balance test and the oldest amounts first

To use carry-forward amounts, your total super balance must be less than $500,000 at 30 June of the previous financial year. This is a combined balance test, not a separate limit for each fund. You also need unused amounts still within the five-year window.

Unused amounts expire after five years, and the oldest available amounts are used first. Check the ATO’s recorded figures, then reconcile recent contributions with your funds because reporting may not yet reflect every payment.

Count what is already going into super

Include employer payments and salary sacrifice when checking your available cap. For example, an apparent $20,000 of remaining room would fall to $14,000 if another $6,000 of counted contributions arrives. These are illustrative amounts, not the annual statutory cap.

Confirm the current year’s cap, expected contributions and fund receipt dates before transferring money. Age-related contribution and deduction conditions can also matter. A tax deduction alone does not establish that a contribution suits your retirement needs.

Complete the deduction paperwork in the right order

For an eligible personal contribution deduction, give your fund a valid notice of intent and receive its acknowledgment before claiming. The notice is generally due before lodging the relevant return or the end of the following financial year, whichever comes first.

A rollover, withdrawal or starting a pension can affect notice validity. Check the sequence before moving money. Keep the fund’s acknowledgment with your tax records, including where you are also an SMSF trustee.