What types of products are available?
As more people are using the products, manufacturers are more likely to develop and research new products so the range is increasingly all the time. There are now almost as many organic items available as there are non-organic. This means that the usual face creams, cleansers, toners and moisturisers are all available in some form and many are available in major supermarkets and cosmetic shops as well as being available from smaller more specialised retailers. Some of them will be local to you and may use local produce. Are They Expensive? Traditionally organic products were slightly more expensive that their counterparts but as more people are buying them the price is coming down as manufacturers can make it in bulk which saves money that can be passed on to the retailer and customer base. Manufacturers are also becoming more aware of the availability of the products and the rise in public interest and now have stronger competition which will in turn make the products more affordable
Generally, it is much more tax-effective to convert your super into an allocated pension (also known as an ‘account based pension’) or annuity. The main reasons are: • there is no tax on lump sums or income payments from age 60 • you receive a 15% tax offset on any taxable income if over 55 and under 60 (if under age 55 conditions apply) • any investment earnings within your pension are tax free. Pension investments are also quite flexible. • you can make lump sum withdrawals whenever you wish • You must take a minimum percentage as income each year based on your age (there is no maximum amount unless you commence a pre-retirement pension, in which case the maximum is 10% pa) • your dependants can receive any remaining account balance when you die. To compare the different types of pension products see How can I generate an income in retirement?
