SMSF Cost-Benefit Calculator

Compare your current fund fees against the annual cost of running an SMSF.

Your details

Total balance to move to an SMSF

Current fund fee (% of balance a year)

Estimated SMSF running cost a year

Annual cost, current fund vs SMSF

Estimated annual saving with an SMSF

$1,250

Current fund fees a year$4,250
SMSF running cost a year$3,000
Annual saving$1,250
Balance at which an SMSF breaks even$352,941

Cost is only one factor. As a trustee you take on legal responsibility for the fund, the investment strategy, insurance and an annual audit, and it takes real time each year. A balance of around $200,000 is the figure commonly cited as the point an SMSF starts to stack up. Counting Beans handles SMSF accounting, advice and lending in one place, so you are not stitching three firms together.

Talk to us about an SMSF

This calculator gives a general estimate only. It is not personal financial, credit or tax advice and does not take your objectives or circumstances into account.

What this calculator assumes

Your current fund fee is treated as a flat percentage of the balance, and the SMSF cost as a fixed dollar amount. Real fee structures often mix both.
Fees, costs and your balance are assumed to stay the same each year, with no allowance for investment returns, inflation or contributions.
Investment returns are not modelled at all here — an SMSF does not itself produce a better or guaranteed return, and comparing fees is not the same as comparing outcomes.
Insurance held inside your current fund is not counted. Cover can be lost or become more expensive when you move funds, which can outweigh any fee saving.
This is a general cost estimate only and is not personal financial advice. Rates and thresholds are those current as at July 2026 (FY2026-27) and change over time.
Rates and thresholds current as at July 2026.

This calculator provides a general estimate only. It is not personal financial, credit or taxation advice and does not take your objectives, financial situation or needs into account. Counting Beans A.F. provides financial advice under AFSL 491754 (D&M Financial Services Pty Ltd) and credit assistance under Credit Representative number 528884. Please read our Financial Services Guide and Credit Guide, and speak with us before acting on any result.

SMSF Cost-Benefit Calculator

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What this calculator assumes

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