FAQs
Welcome to our FAQ page, where we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about investing in Bitcoin through a Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF). If you are considering investing in Bitcoin through an SMSF or are already invested and have questions, you've come to the right place.
Our team of experts has put together a comprehensive list of questions and answers to help you make informed decisions about your SMSF investments. Whether you're wondering about the minimum amount of superannuation needed, the process of setting up an SMSF, the costs involved, or the rules and regulations surrounding Bitcoin investments in an SMSF, we have you covered.
Browse through our list of questions, and if you can't find the information you're looking for, please feel free to Contact us to ask anything that may be missing:
Q: Whats the minimum amount of superannuation I need to have a SMSF?
A: None, ASIC has dropped it's recommended SMSF balance threshold although guidance is provided that $200,000 is appropriate, but hey you do you, if you want to invest smaller amounts in bitcoin there's nothing stopping you.
Q: How long does it take to setup a SMSF?
A: In my case it took about 3 months from start to finish, thats from kicking off the process with eSuperfund through to having super bitcoin in self custody, the process is straight forward, there is quite a bit of paperwork but as long as you follow the guided steps from eSuperfund you shouldn't have any issues.
Q: I think I need some help with setting all of this up, what help is available?
A: Absolutely, you're not alone in feeling that way, and it's great to seek assistance when needed! If you're looking for professional help with managing your Bitcoin investments, particularly for high net worth individuals, I recommend our sister company The Bitcoin Adviser. They offer a suite of services including institutional-grade custody solutions, estate planning, wealth transfer, and even educational support to ensure you understand the ins and outs of investing in Bitcoin. Their professional team is equipped to guide you through the process, making your Bitcoin investment journey less daunting and more secure.
Q: When setting up a smsf is it better to use an individual trustee or a company trustee?
A: When setting up a Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF), one of the decisions you will need to make is whether to use an individual trustee structure or a company trustee structure. Both options have their pros and cons, and the decision ultimately depends on your personal circumstances and preferences.
An individual trustee structure involves appointing individual members of the SMSF to act as trustees. This option is generally more cost-effective and simpler to set up and maintain, particularly for smaller SMSFs with only a few members. However, it also means that the individual members are personally liable for the SMSF's compliance with superannuation laws and regulations.
On the other hand, a company trustee structure involves setting up a separate company to act as the trustee of the SMSF. This option can provide greater asset protection, as the company is a separate legal entity and the individual members are not personally liable for the SMSF's compliance. However, it can also be more complex and expensive to set up and maintain, particularly for smaller SMSFs with only a few members.
Ultimately, the decision to use an individual trustee or a company trustee for your SMSF will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and complexity of the SMSF, the number of members involved, and your personal preferences and risk tolerance. It is important to seek professional advice from a financial advisor or SMSF specialist before making any decisions.
Q: Can I buy things other than bitcoin in my SMSF
A: Yes, you can invest in a broad range of different asset classes, stocks, bonds, property, wine, you name it. My personal choice is to invest 100% into bitcoin, it's performance speaks for itself over the long term and I have a low time preference so I don't care about the short term volatility, but you do you.
Q: How much does setting up a SMSF for bitcoin cost?
A: There are of course costs involved to doing all of this, approximate numbers provided here as they are subject to change:
eSuperfund set up (currently free offer)
One off Company Trustee Setup $699
Annual eSuperfund fee after first year approx $1,000
Annual ATO Supervisory Levy approx $500
Coldcard Hardware Keys for your self custody multisig vault recommended "Uncle Jims Bundle" approx $450 USD
Q: What happens with regular compulsory contributions to my SMSF?
A: Depending on the schedule your employer pays your super which can be anything up to 3 month gaps your contributions get paid into your SMSF bank account, from there you should set aside 15% for tax which is only payable annually, then with the remaining funds it's up to you. I send them straight to my Independent Reserve account, smash buy bitcoin and then move the bitcoin to my super vault not to be seen again until I retire.
Q: What are the risks or things I should be concerned about when investing Bitcoin through an SMSF?
A: There are several considerations to be aware of when investing in Bitcoin through an SMSF, which include:
Volatility: Bitcoin is known for its price volatility, which means that the value of your investment can fluctuate rapidly and unpredictably. This can result in significant gains or losses, which can impact your SMSF's overall performance.
Security: Investing in Bitcoin requires digital wallets and exchanges, which can be vulnerable to hacking and fraud. This can result in the loss of your Bitcoin investments and compromise the security of your SMSF there are methods to ensure this is mitigated. Check out this article on The Bitcoin Adviser for more information on Bitcoin Custody
Lack of regulation: Bitcoin is not regulated by any central authority, which means that there are no protections for investors in the event of fraud or other illegal activities.
Q: Can I transfer my existing superannuation funds into an SMSF to invest in Bitcoin?
A: Yes, you can transfer your existing superannuation funds into an SMSF to invest in Bitcoin. However, it is important to note that there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed when setting up and managing an SMSF.
Q: How do I ensure the security of my Bitcoin investments in an SMSF?
A: Ensuring the security of your Bitcoin investments in an SMSF is crucial, given the potential risks of cyberattacks and fraud. Here are some steps you can take to enhance the security of your Bitcoin investments:
Use reputable exchanges and wallets: Choose a reputable hardware wallet such as coldcard and multi-sig collaborative custody such as unchained to store your Bitcoin investments.
Implement two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication provides an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or biometric scan, to access your accounts.
You can find out more information about setting up your SMSF for Bitcoin on our setup page.
Alternatively if you want professional assistance have a look at The Bitcoin Adviser
Q: What happens if my SMSF incurs a loss from Bitcoin investments?
A: If your SMSF incurs a loss from Bitcoin investments, it may impact your retirement savings. However, the extent of the impact depends on the size of the loss and the overall investment strategy of your SMSF.
In the event of a loss, your SMSF trustee has a duty to act in the best interests of the fund and its members. This may involve taking steps to minimize the impact of the loss, such as diversifying the fund's investments or adjusting the investment strategy.
Q: Do I have to invest all my funds into an SMSF or Bitcoin?
A: Absolutely not, you can choose how much to move into your SMSF, you can leave as much as you like in your traditional fund if you wish, additionally you can allocate as much of your SMSF funds to Bitcoin as you wish in line with your SMSF investment strategy.