FAQs
How do I register for employer online?
To register for Employer Online you will need to download, complete and return the Employer online registration Form. We will then be in touch with you to set up your account online. We may need to obtain a test file from you if you are going to upload a payroll or spreadsheet file.
What is the current Superannuation Guarantee (SG) rate?
Currently the SG contribution rate is 9% of an eligible employee's ordinary time earnings, which must be paid into a complying super fund (such as ESI Super). If your employees work under a specific industrial award or agreement, you are also obliged to contribute in accordance with that award or agreement, for example, you may be required to make additional contributions or to pay those contributions to a specific fund.
What salary should I use to calculate SG?
From 1 July 2008, ordinary time earnings (OTE) as defined in the Superannuation Guarantee law, must be used when calculating the amount of super you have to pay. You should investigate your own circumstances to ensure that you are using the correct definition for your employees.
The maximum salary level on which contributions will be based is set each year by the ATO. No super contributions are payable on the part of an employees salary in excess of the maximum level.
Contact the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to find out what the current maximum salary levels are for any financial year.
When are contributions due?
ESI Super encourages employers to pay as per their payroll cycle, generally at least monthly.
The legislation states that you must pay SG contributions at least quarterly. Quarterly payments must be received by ESI Super within 28 days following the end of the quarter. Contributions are due by 28 October, 28 January, 28 April and 28 July each year.
Legislation also requires that if you are deducting after tax salary contributions on behalf of an employee, these must be sent to ESI Super by the 28th day of the following month. For example, if you deduct an amount on 15 April, this must be sent to us by 28 May.
Who must I contribute for?
You must pay super if your employee(s) earn at least $450 gross per calendar month. The main exceptions are employees who are:
- Under 18 years of age and working less than 30 hours per week.
- Aged 70 years and over, or
- Performing work of a private or domestic nature for not more than 30 hours a week for a non-business employer.
Please note: You may still be required by a Federal or State award, Industrial Agreement or Employee Contract to pay super for the above employees. You should check your particular circumstances in relation to your employees.
What if I don't pay enough or I am late paying?
If you choose not to pay super for your eligible employees or you do not pay enough super for your employees by certain prescribed dates, you will have to pay a charge called the Superannuation Guarantee Charge (SGC). This charge includes an additional administration fee and interest payable to the Australian Tax Office (ATO). These amounts are not tax deductible.