Critical Changes to CGT
From 6 April 2020, anyone making a taxable gain from the sale of UK residential property will have to pay the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) owed within 60 days of the completion date.
CGT was previously paid as part of annual self-assessment returns. This therefore means a significant change. A payment that could have been made between 10 and 22 months after the date of sale is now due almost immediately. There are also changes to letting tax reliefs and final period exemptions outlined in our full factsheet.
Common Questions regarding the 60-day payment window
- Are there any applicable tax reliefs that can reduce the tax due?
- How will the tax payment affect my annual self-assessment return?
- Can I still offset capital losses against the gain?
Other changes in summary:
- Letting relief rules tightened.
This tax relief on previous main residences will now be limited to those who shared occupancy with their tenant. Previously this relief may have exempted £40,000 of the gain (so £80,000 for co-owners). - Final period exemption reduced.
If a property was ever a main residence, in most cases the last 18 months of ownership qualify for private residence relief and are exempt from tax. This will now be limited to 9 months.
General Advice for Property Investors
As a landlord or property investor you must consider tax liabilities at the various phases of owning and renting a property, from purchasing, letting and on sale.
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Free Resources
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