Franking credits are a type of tax credit used in Australia, primarily for shareholders who own shares in Australian companies. They are also known as imputation credits, and they are designed to prevent double taxation of company profits. When a company pays dividends to its shareholders, it has already paid corporate tax on the profits that generated the dividend. Franking credits allow shareholders to claim a credit for the tax the company has already paid, reducing the amount of tax they must pay on the dividend income.
How Do Franking Credits Work?
Franking credits work by reducing the amount of tax that shareholders must pay on their dividend income. For example, if a shareholder receives a dividend of $1,000 and the company has already paid corporate tax of $300 on the profits that generated the dividend, the shareholder can claim a franking credit of $300. This means the shareholder only has to pay tax on the remaining $700 of dividend income. The franking credit is also included in the shareholder’s taxable income, so it can help reduce their overall tax bill.
Who Benefits from Franking Credits?
Franking credits benefit shareholders who receive dividends from Australian companies that have paid corporate tax on their profits. They are particularly beneficial for individuals and super funds with low or no taxable income, as they can use franking credits to reduce their tax bill or even receive a tax refund. However, franking credits are less valuable for companies and high-income earners who are already paying a significant amount of tax on their income.
What Are the Risks of Investing in Australian Shares for Franking Credits?
Investing in Australian shares solely for the purpose of obtaining franking credits can be risky, as it can result in a lack of diversification in an investor’s portfolio. It’s important to remember that companies that pay franked dividends may not necessarily be the best investment option. Investors should consider a company’s financial health, growth prospects, and other factors before making an investment decision.
Franking credits are an important aspect of dividend income for Australian shareholders. They allow investors to claim a credit for the tax already paid by the company, reducing the amount of tax they must pay on their dividend income. While franking credits can be beneficial for low-income earners and super funds, it’s important to remember that investing in Australian shares solely for the purpose of obtaining franking credits can be risky. Investors should consider a company’s financial health and growth prospects, as well as any potential changes to franking credit policy, before making an investment decision.
