Electronic service address (ESA)
For iCare Super SMSF clients on a monthly direct debit payment, we will apply for an ESA from messaging providers and email it to you.
Our ESA will allow any rollovers, employer contributions, or transfers.
Please note that we can only provide an ESA to iCare Super’s clients. If you wish to use our ESA, you may consider transferring your SMSF under our administration.
What is an electronic service address?
An ESA (electronic service address) is an identifier used by SMSFs that represents the URL or IP address of a messaging provider. It is required by SuperStream to report superannuation guarantee contributions electronically in a standard format. It is also compulsory if you transfer a member’s balance between super funds.
Who can provide an ESA to my SMSF?
Messaging providers or your SMSF administrator, bank, tax agent, or accountants can provide an ESA to your SMSF.
What are the costs of applying for an ESA or maintaining an ESA?
Most ESA providers offer no-cost or low-cost options for ESAs that only allow you to make employer contributions. If you want to use an ESA for a rollover between super funds, you will need to pay a service provider to obtain an ESA.
When do I need an ESA for my SMSF ?
You need to provide the ESA to your employer before they can transfer employer contributions to your SMSF. The ESA is also required for rollovers between super funds.
Can I change or update the ESA for my SMSF?
Yes, you can. We will help you update it with the ATO. It can be done in a couple of minutes.
Why can’t my SMSF receive employer contributions with an ESA?
Even you have an ESA for your SMSF, your SMSF still needs to meet the following conditions to be able to receive employer contributions:
- For newly established SMSFs: The status of your SMSF in Super Fund Lookup needs to be “complying.” Normally, it will show a complying status immediately after establishment.
- for existing SMSFs: You need to lodge your SMSF tax returns on time so the complying status on SuperFund Lookup website does not show “complying status removed”. Normally ATO will remove your SMSF from Super Fund Lookup if you have not lodged tax returns for your SMSF for the last two years. If the complying status is removed, it will take about four weeks to get back to complying status after all outstanding tax return are lodged with ATO.
Please note, if you request an ESA from iCare Super, you are providing consent for the messaging providers to collect, hold, use, and disclose any personal information contained in the message. The personal information will be protected by their Privacy Policy.