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Working With Accountants

Cornerstone's role, particularly when working in the SMSF environment, is to provide breadth to the existing relationship that you already have with your client.

Cornerstone's approach to working with Accountants is purely client centric. We believe that the key to a successful long term client relationship is one that has a Lead Adviser in place.

That Adviser may be the Accountant, Financial Planner or it may be a Solicitor. It is the depth of the relationship that dictates who takes on the Lead Adviser role.

Cornerstone's role, particularly when working in the SMSF environment, is to provide breadth to the existing relationship that you already have with your client.

We provide support in three primary areas:

1. Safety;
2. Structure; and
3. Strategy

Whether the client requires assistance in just one or all three areas depends completely on where they are in life's journey.

Safety

As we all know, compliance of a SMSF is imperative. Regardless of whether we are helping a client from inception or whether the client has had a SMSF for a number of years, Cornerstone arm trustees with knowledge and the necessary tools to make the ongoing compliance management a simple process.

Where required for existing funds, we will complete a "safety check" which includes such areas as minute registers, investment strategies and ownership of assets. Where issues are identified, we provide advice and assistance in filling the gaps.

Cornerstone believe that Trustee education is paramount. We have therefore built a series of training sessions for Trustees. These can be delivered through group sessions or at an individual level.

Structure

Cornerstone consider structure in conjunction with the client's journey. We spend time understanding where the client is today and where their future destination lies. The roadmap tailored for the individual client, is done so in conjunction with you, their Accountant, to ensure that the relevant structures are in place (or will be put in place). A path for change is often required, particularly where specific events such as sale or the purchase of a new business or asset occurs.

Through a partnership arrangement with Accountants, we have found that we are able to provide a holistic strategy ensuring great long term outcomes are achieved.

Strategy

The strategy of a Self Managed Super Fund is completely dependent on where in life's journey our mutual client sits. The strategies considered may need to include advice for borrowings inside a SMSF, reserving strategies, estate planning or pensions. Once again, your client may only require advice in one area or they may require a complete strategy where we can incorporate Cornerstone's Wealth Management Program.

By partnering with you and your clients, we are able to establish an appropriate road map for your client's financial planning journey ahead. We consider the fantastic opportunities that SMSFs present and help your clients make smart financial decisions for their individual journey.

If you would like to discuss how Cornerstone may work with you, your company and potentially your clients, please contact us.