Death benefits and wind-ups · From $299 + GST
Valuations for Death Benefits and Fund Wind-Ups
When a member dies or a fund is wound up, the property in it needs a market value at a specific date, often one that has already passed. We prepare those reports quietly and quickly, with the evidence set out in full.
What property valuation does an SMSF need for a death benefit or wind-up?
A market value report as at the relevant date, usually the date of death or the date the fund disposes of the asset. That value drives the member benefit calculation and the final accounts, so it needs objective evidence behind it rather than an estimate, and it can be prepared for a date already past.
These reports are usually needed at a difficult time and often under time pressure from a lodgement or a settlement. The process is the same as any other order and requires no inspection and no site visit.
Why the figure matters
One Number, Several Consequences
The market value recorded at the relevant date does more work here than in an ordinary reporting year.
It sets what the deceased member’s balance was worth, which flows into how the death benefit is calculated and paid. It goes into the fund’s final or ongoing accounts. Where the property is later sold, it is a reference point for the capital gains position. And where more than one beneficiary has an interest, it is the figure they will each measure their entitlement against.
A bare estimate invites disagreement. A report that shows its working, lists the comparable sales it relied on and states the methodology gives the accountant, the auditor and the family the same documented basis.
Valuing as at a Date Already Past
Death benefit valuations are frequently ordered months after the date they need to reflect, which is normal and expected. A retrospective report assesses what the property was worth at that earlier date, using the comparable sales that had settled by then, with the date integrity stated in the report. Where the valuation date is more than two years back, a retrospective fee of $100 + GST applies. See retrospective valuations or the fuller explanation in how backdated valuations work.
Winding a Fund Up Without Loose Ends
A fund cannot be wound up cleanly while an asset carries a value nobody can substantiate. The final accounts and the last audit both need the property recorded at market value with evidence behind it, and the same is true if the property is transferred out to a member rather than sold. Where it is transferred, see in-specie transfers. The evidence standard itself is set out in the complete guide.
Working with accountants
Usually Ordered by the Accountant
Most of these reports come to us from the fund's accountant rather than the family, often alongside several other jobs for the same practice. If you are handling an estate and need more than one valuation, or need one urgently, call 1300 139 483 and we will work to the date you need.
3,500+reports delivered
200+accounting firms
0rejected by an auditor
Trusted byBDO AustraliaMoore AustraliaSuperannuation Audit Servicesand many more
Common questions
Questions We Are Often Asked
What date should the valuation be prepared as at?
Usually the date of death for a death benefit, and the relevant reporting or disposal date for a wind-up. Your accountant will confirm which date the fund's accounts and the benefit calculation require. Tell us that date and the report is prepared as at it.
Can you value a property as at a date in the past?
Yes. A retrospective report assesses market value at a past date using the sales evidence that existed at the time. Where the valuation date is more than two years before today, a retrospective fee of $100 + GST applies on top of the standard price.
How long does a report take in these circumstances?
The standard 1-4 business days. If a lodgement or settlement deadline is pressing, call us on 1300 139 483 before ordering and we will tell you honestly whether we can meet it.
Does the fund still need a 30 June valuation as well?
Usually yes. The annual reporting obligation under regulation 8.02B continues for as long as the fund holds the asset, so a date-of-death valuation does not replace the 30 June figure. Your accountant will confirm what the final accounts need.
What if beneficiaries disagree about the value?
That is exactly when the quality of the evidence matters most. A report that itemises 5 to 10 comparable sales, states its methodology and is signed by the person who prepared it gives everyone the same defensible starting point rather than a bare figure.
General information about valuation evidence, not financial, legal or tax advice. Death benefit and estate matters should be handled with your accountant, adviser or solicitor. See all property types we value.
When You Need the Valuation
Tell us the property address and the date the report needs to reflect, including a date in the past. Delivered in 1-4 business days, or call 1300 139 483 if the timing is tight.