Capital Gains Tax in 2025: What’s changed?
CGT is applied to profits made when you sell or dispose of an asset. Until recently, different CGT rates applied depending on the asset type. That’s changed. As of 30 October 2024, all gains above the annual allowance (£3,000) are taxed as follows:
- 18% for basic-rate taxpayers
- 24% for higher-rate taxpayers
Previously, residential property attracted rates of up to 28%, but this has now been brought in line with other assets—at least for now.
Where you might encounter CGT
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Property that’s not your main home
This includes second homes, buy-to-let properties, or inherited properties sold for a profit. If you’ve ever rented out a home you now live in, a portion of any gain could be taxable—even if it’s now your primary residence.
Key point: Private Residence Relief still applies, but only if the property has always been your main residence, or you’ve nominated it as such.
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Shares and investments outside ISAs
Selling shares held outside a tax wrapper could trigger CGT if profits exceed £3,000 annually. Gifted shares also count as a “disposal,” and may be taxed even if no money changes hands.
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Cryptocurrency
Crypto investors, take note: HMRC treats Bitcoin and other digital assets as taxable investments. Selling or even spending crypto can trigger CGT, and “giving it away” (other than to a spouse) won’t avoid it.
Deadlines you can’t miss
For property sales, you must:
- Report the gain within 60 days of completion.
- Pay your estimated CGT liability within the same window.
For other assets, you report via your self-assessment by 31 January of the following tax year.
Reliefs and deductions that could save you thousands
Offsetting Costs
You can deduct:
- Legal and agent fees
- Stamp duty
- Renovation costs that improved the property
Losses and carry forwards
Sold something for a loss in a previous year? You can use this to reduce your current CGT liability—up to four years back.
Private Residence Relief & nomination
If you have two homes, nominate your main one (within two years of any change) to benefit from CGT exemption. This is especially useful for those who spend time between two properties.
Business Asset Relief
Selling shares in unlisted companies, particularly AIM-listed stocks, may qualify for business relief—though this too is under review.
GSI’s take: Planning proactively in a shifting tax climate
Tax isn’t just about compliance—it’s about strategy. The recent alignment of CGT rates may seem like a simplification, but it reflects a broader tightening of fiscal policy. With the personal allowance shrinking and the government under pressure to raise revenue, it’s more important than ever to think ahead.
Whether you’re planning to sell a property, wind down an investment portfolio, or gift shares to a loved one, proper timing and structure can make a world of difference.
At GSI, we specialise in proactive, tax-smart planning. If you’re unsure about how these rules affect your situation, don’t wait until your return is due—get in touch.
Plan well. Live happy. Pay what’s fair.
