The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is warning the community about a proliferation of dodgy websites sharing fake news about changes to the superannuation preservation rules and withdrawal rules starting on 1 June.
ATO Deputy Commissioner Emma Rosenzweig confirmed the maximum preservation age (the age when you can access your superannuation savings on retirement) is 60 for anyone born from 1 July 1964.
Taxpayers who have questions about the legitimacy of tax information should refer to the ATO’s website or speak to their registered tax professional if they have one.
Quotes attributable to ATO Deputy Commissioner Emma Rosenzweig:
‘This is classic fake news. Always consider the source of information you see, and if in doubt go to trusted sources such as the ATO website www.ato.gov.au, your super fund website, your registered tax agent or licensed financial adviser.’
‘Beware of websites that might be trying to harvest your personal information such as your TFN, identity details or myGov login details.’
‘Think twice before acting on information heard from third-party sources, including non-official websites or on social media.’
‘Be cautious about ‘free expert’ tax advice. If you are going to approach someone to help you manage your tax affairs, ensure they are a practising lawyer or registered with the Tax Practitioners Board. You can check if a tax professional is registered on the Tax Practitioner’s Board websiteExternal Link.’
Notes to journalists
- ATO stock footage and images are available for use in news bulletins from our media centre.
- A headshotThis link will download a file of ATO Deputy Commissioner Emma Rosenzweig is available from the ATO media centre.