ATO flags key deadlines for early release of super
With the end of the year drawing closer, the ATO has outlined some of the cut-off dates and deadlines applying for members wanting to apply for the early release of their super.

In an online update, the ATO said that for superannuation members who are eligible for COVID-19 early release of super and intent on applying, they may apply through ATO online services in myGov before 11 December 2020.
“In most cases, this should allow enough time for us process their application and for you to release the money,” said the ATO update.
Access to COVID-19 early release of super closes on 31 December 2020. Members can apply online up to this time, the ATO reminded members and professionals.
“Applications cannot be backdated or accepted after 31 December 2020,” it cautioned.
The ATO assured members that as long as applications are submitted by the deadline, they will be processed.
“As long as we receive your members’ application by the deadline, we will process it. However, confirmation notifications from us and payments from [funds] may be delayed due to the holiday season and can continue into January 2021,” it said.
The ATO also added that if members require a compassionate release of super determination letter before Christmas, they will need to apply through ATO online services in myGov by 4 December 2020.
Members should also take into consideration the time it will take for funds to receive the determination and make the payment, it said.
Reporter
26 November 2020
smsfadviser.com
Hot Issues
- ASIC targeting high-pressure sales and inappropriate advice
- Investment and economic outlook, January 2026
- Australians not underspending their super
- Five financial steps for the new year
- ASIC warns investors on pump and dump scammers
- Don’t confuse contribution with roll-over when using proceeds from small business sale
- Missed SG exemption may not be problem
- Rare and vanishing: Animals That May Go Extinct Soon
- It’s super hump month. Make the most of it
- Three timeless investing lessons from Warren Buffett
- 2026 outlook: Economic upside, stock market downside
- Care needed with ceased legacy pensions
- What had the biggest impact on the sector in 2025?
- What does 2026 look like in the SMSF sector?
- It’s not just Div 296 that could face changes in 2026
- Which country produces the most electricity annually?
- AI exuberance: Economic upside, stock market downside
- Becoming a member of an SMSF is easy, but there are other things that need to be considered
- Investment and economic outlook, November 2025
- Move assets before death to avoid tax implications
- ATO issues warning about super schemes
- 12 financial tips for the festive season and year ahead
- Birth date impacts bring-forward NCCs
- Countries with the largest collection or eucalyptus trees
- How to budget using the envelope method
- Accountants united in support for changes
- Investment and economic outlook, October 2025
- Stress-test SMSF in preparation for Div 296
- Determining what is an in-house asset can help determine investment strategy
- Beware pushy sales tactics targeting your super
- Call for SMSF ‘nudge’ in DBFO package
- How Many Countries Divided From The Largest Empire throughout history
