What Changed on 1 April 2025
The temporary higher SDLT thresholds introduced in September 2022 expired on 31 March 2025. From 1 April 2025, rates reverted to their previous, lower levels: the standard nil-rate band fell from £250,000 back to £125,000, and first-time buyer relief now covers only the first £300,000 (down from £425,000), with the relief cut off entirely above £500,000 (down from £625,000). Separately, the surcharge on additional properties rose from 3% to 5% on 31 October 2024. This calculator reflects both changes.
Current SDLT Rates (From 1 April 2025)
Standard residential rates
| Portion of price | Rate |
|---|---|
| £0 – £125,000 | 0% |
| £125,001 – £250,000 | 2% |
| £250,001 – £925,000 | 5% |
| £925,001 – £1,500,000 | 10% |
| Above £1,500,000 | 12% |
First-time buyer rates (only if price is £500,000 or less)
| Portion of price | Rate |
|---|---|
| £0 – £300,000 | 0% |
| £300,001 – £500,000 | 5% |
Buyers of a second home, buy-to-let, or property bought through a company add a flat 5% surcharge on every band, including the nil-rate band. Non-UK residents add a further 2% on top of whichever rate otherwise applies.
Worked Example
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Purchase price (standard buyer) | £350,000 |
| 0% on first £125,000 | £0 |
| 2% on next £125,000 (to £250,000) | £2,500 |
| 5% on remaining £100,000 | £5,000 |
| Total SDLT | £7,500 |
Related Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SDLT nil-rate threshold in 2025/26?+
From 1 April 2025, the standard nil-rate threshold reverted to £125,000, down from the temporary £250,000 that applied between September 2022 and March 2025. Buyers now pay 2% on the portion between £125,001 and £250,000, where previously they paid nothing.
How much can first-time buyers get in relief now?+
From 1 April 2025, first-time buyer relief gives a 0% rate up to £300,000 (down from £425,000) and a 5% rate on the slice between £300,001 and £500,000. If the property costs more than £500,000, no relief applies at all and standard rates are charged on the full price — down from a £625,000 cap previously.
Does the additional property surcharge still apply?+
Yes. Since 31 October 2024, buyers of second homes, buy-to-lets, or properties bought through a company pay a 5% surcharge on top of the standard rate on every band, including the nil-rate band — up from 3% previously.
Do non-UK residents pay extra SDLT?+
Yes. Non-UK resident buyers pay an additional 2% surcharge on top of whichever rate otherwise applies (standard, first-time buyer, or additional property), based on days spent in the UK in the 12 months before completion.
Does SDLT apply in Scotland or Wales?+
No. Scotland charges Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) and Wales charges Land Transaction Tax (LTT), both with their own separate bands and rates. This calculator covers England and Northern Ireland only.