🇬🇧 United Kingdom · Guide

Capital Gains Tax — Complete Overview

CGT applies when you sell (or "dispose of") an asset for more than you paid — here's how it's structured.

Tax Year 2025/26Last reviewed 24 Jul 2026

The annual exempt amount

You can make gains up to £3,000 in a tax year completely tax-free. This has been reduced significantly in recent years (it was £12,300 as recently as 2022/23), meaning more people now have some CGT liability.

Current rates (since 30 October 2024)

Your income tax bandCGT Rate
Basic rate18%
Higher / Additional rate24%

These rates now apply equally to residential property and other assets like shares — they were aligned in the October 2024 Budget, having previously been different.

What's usually exempt

Calculate your exact CGT on a specific gain.

Use the Capital Gains Tax Calculator →
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Reliefs like Business Asset Disposal Relief can significantly change your rate for qualifying business sales. Verify with an accountant.