Understanding Stamp Duty in the UK
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a tax paid by buyers when purchasing property or land in England and Northern Ireland. It’s an essential consideration for anyone looking to buy a home, as it can significantly impact the overall cost of the transaction. This article explains how stamp duty works, who needs to pay it, and how to calculate it. You can also use the form below to estimate your stamp duty based on property value and buyer status. What is Stamp Duty? Stamp Duty Land Tax is levied on property or land purchases above a certain price threshold in England and Northern Ireland. The tax applies to both freehold and leasehold properties, whether bought outright or with a mortgage. Scotland and Wales have their own equivalent taxes: Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) and Land Transaction Tax (LTT), respectively. The amount of stamp duty you pay depends on several factors, including: The purchase price. Whether you’re a first-time b...