Still Time to Stay Ahead of CGT Changes

New rules surrounding the payment of Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on profits made on the sale of a residential property are now just weeks away.

Taking effect on 6 April 2020, the changes will reduce the amount of time individuals have to pay their CGT bill and could significantly increase the CGT due on the disposal of a residential property.

Current legislation will change in regard to Letting Relief, CGT liability and the tax exemption period on principal private residences.

In summary, from April:

  • Residential property disposals will have to be reported and CGT paid on them within 30 days of completing a sale;
  • Letting Relief (up to £40,000) will only be available if the letting took place at a time when the homeowners shared occupancy of a main residence with the tenant;
  • Private Residence Relief, for landlords renting out their former homes,  will apply to the full period a taxpayer lived in the property as their main residence plus the final nine months of ownership – reducing from the current 'final exemption' period of 18 months.
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.