Superannuation contribution caps have increased for the 2026-27 financial year. If you have a Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF), understanding these caps is essential to avoid excess contributions tax. Information from the ATO contributions caps.
Concessional (Before-Tax) Contributions Cap
From 1 July 2026, the concessional contributions cap is $32,500 per year (up from $27,500).
Concessional contributions include:
- Employer Super Guarantee contributions (currently 12%)
- Salary sacrifice contributions
- Personal deductible contributions
Carry-forward rule: If your total super balance is under $500,000, you may be able to carry forward unused concessional cap amounts from the previous 5 years.
Tax on excess: Contributions above the cap are included in your assessable income and taxed at your marginal rate, less a 15% tax offset.
Non-Concessional (After-Tax) Contributions Cap
From 1 July 2026, the non-concessional contributions cap is $130,000 per year (up from $120,000).
You can also use the bring-forward rule to contribute up to 3 years of caps in a single year (up to $390,000), subject to your total super balance:
- Below $1.485 million: Full bring-forward available ($390,000)
- $1.485 million to $1.595 million: Reduced bring-forward
- Above $1.595 million: Cannot make non-concessional contributions
Key SMSF Compliance Points
- Monitor member balances before making contributions
- Ensure contributions are within caps before 30 June
- Report contributions through the ATO reporting portal
- Issue Notice of Intent to Claim forms for personal deductible contributions
- Arrange annual audit by an approved SMSF auditor