What you need to know about early release of super

There are many reasons you might need to access your super early. Whether it’s unexpected medical bills, financial stress or saving for your first home, we’ve got all the info you need to make the best decision for your super.

When can I get early access to my Super?

Your super is typically reserved for retirement, but there are some circumstances where you can access it early. These situations are limited and require you to prove your eligibility. They include:

• compassionate grounds this opens in a new window 

• serious medical illness or injury

• severe financial hardship

• temporarily or permanently unable to work

• there's less than $200 in your Super account

• temporary resident leaving Australia (DASP)

• first home super saver scheme (FHSS scheme)

Access to super under some of these conditions are not administered by the ATO. See our website for when you need to contact your super fund directly to request early access.

It’s important to note you won’t be able to access your Super to repay any Government debts, including ATO debts or HECS-HELP loans.

What do I need to provide when requesting access to my Super?

Generally, you’ll need to provide documents to prove your eligibility. The type of documents will depend on your circumstances. Examples include:

• medical reports

• invoices and/or quotes of medical expenses

• bank statements

• statutory declaration forms this opens in a new window 

The fastest way to submit your supporting documents is online. You can upload digital copies or photos using myGov. But remember, we don’t accept screenshots of emails or text messages. If you choose to mail your documents instead, make sure you only send us copies as originals won’t be returned.

In some situations, you may need to provide us with extra information. Like proving your interdependent relationship this opens in a new window  or that you’re substantially financially dependent this opens in a new window  on someone. To see what evidence you need to provide this opens in a new window  for your specific situation, check out our website.

How do I apply for early release of Super?

How you apply for an early release of super depends on your situation. It’s important to talk to your super fund about early release before applying.

To apply for compassionate release of super, you’ll need a myGov account linked to the ATO. We’ve got info to help with linking your myGov account. To start your application in ATO online services, select Super > Manage > Compassionate release. Make sure you go through the checklist before you begin.

If you’re looking to take advantage of the FHSS Scheme, our article has info on how to apply for a FHSS determination. You’re able to lodge a request this opens in a new window  by completing the application form and sending it to us by email or post.

Before claiming your DASP, your Australian visa must be expired or cancelled. If you have not cancelled your Australian visa, you’ll need to contact the Department of Home Affairs directly. Once you have left Australia and are eligible for withdrawing your Super, you can submit your application online this opens in a new window .

How long does an application take to process?

Digital applications are usually assessed in 14 days (or 28 days for paper applications). Depending on your circumstances and your super fund, it may take us a little longer. You’ll be notified of your application outcome by phone or SMS text message. You'll also receive a letter in your myGov inbox or via post (if you applied using a paper form). If your application is successful, we’ll send a copy of your approval letter to your Super fund. To access your funds, you’ll need to contact them directly.

Do I need to declare my Super lump sum on my tax return?

Short answer is yes! This is because the withdrawal may be taxable or eligible for a tax offset this opens in a new window . This will all depend on the type of release. If you use the lump sum to produce income this opens in a new window  – for example Investing – you must declare any associated earnings on your tax return.

What if I don’t need my early release of super anymore?

You may be asked to re-contribute your funds back into your Super if you:

• no longer need the funds,

• are unable to provide records of what the funds were used for, or

• didn’t use the funds for your intended purpose.

What if I’m a permanent resident living overseas and I want to withdraw my super?

If you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident this opens in a new window  living overseas, you can still access your super early for compassionate reasons. If applying from overseas, we recommend completing your application online through myGov.

For more information about early access to super this opens in a new window , check out our website.