accessing your super in retirement

So you want to stop workand start enjoying retirement.

You've been building your super for years, but you're not sure what happens to it once you retire.

Many Australians think their super balance just gets paid into their bank account. This is possible. But in reality, you may still want your money to earn investment returns.

The HESTA Retirement Income Stream gives you access to a regular income from your super, while your money keeps working hard for you.

You can access tax-free income payments from age 60, or tax offsets before age 60, and receive tax-free investment earnings once you meet a condition of release.

There are decisions to make along the way about how much income to take out, how often you'd like to receive it, and where your money will be invested.

You can invest in the HESTA Income Stream ready-made strategy designed especially for retirees to reduce investment risk over time, or create your own strategy.

You may even be eligible for the HESTA Retirement Reward bonus.

Retirement doesn't have to be daunting as you work out how you keep money coming in to pay the bills.

With a HESTA Retirement Income Stream, you can receive a regular income paid directly to your bank account, which many of our members combine with their Age Pension to cover their expenses.

You can use your member-only Future Planner to see how your retirement income could work and how to make it last. Just log into your online account to start exploring.

Of course, if you find you might be a little short, you could see how continuing work for a while but reducing your hours might help make your savings stretch that bit further.

Every financial situation is different and helping our members work out how to make the most of their retirement savings is what we are here for.

The peace of mind that comes with understanding how best you use your retirement savings and knowing you still have a regular income can mean all you need to worry about is how you'll spend your newfound time.

If you've already decided on an income stream, it's easy to apply. Just log into your online account.

If you've reached your preservation age, an Apply Now button will appear on your dashboard. Click the button, then follow the tabs along the top.

If you get stuck along the way, a HESTA team member will call you to help complete the process.

If online is not your thing, we have a paper application form.

If you need help, just book a time with our team here and they can help you fill it in over the phone.

You can find other helpful information on our website or read our income stream product disclosure statement.