Stamp Duty Questions
Find clear answers to your stamp duty questions from our expert guides.
Every stamp duty question answered
40+ short, direct answers covering SDLT, LBTT, LTT, surcharges, reliefs, and refunds, each linking to a full guide.
Annexe, land or an old home not sold yet?
These are the purchases where a standard calculator can get your stamp duty wrong. Get it checked before you exchange.
Most Asked Questions
When do I pay stamp duty?
Stamp duty must be paid within 14 days of completion. Your solicitor typically handles the payment.
Who pays stamp duty - buyer or seller?
The buyer pays stamp duty, not the seller. When you sell a property, you don't pay stamp duty.
Am I a first-time buyer for stamp duty?
You're a first-time buyer if you've never owned property anywhere in the world.
Can I claim a stamp duty refund?
You may be able to claim back the 5% surcharge if you sell your previous home within 36 months.
Can parents pay my stamp duty?
Yes. Gifted money doesn't affect FTB relief, but joint ownership triggers surcharges.
Does inheritance affect stamp duty?
Inheriting property is SDLT-free, but it may trigger the surcharge on future purchases.
Payment & Process
When do I pay stamp duty?
The 14-day deadline, payment timeline, and what your solicitor handles.
Can I pay stamp duty in instalments?
No. Why there is no instalment scheme, and what Time to Pay and credit cards actually allow.
Who pays stamp duty: buyer or seller?
The buyer always pays. Sellers have no stamp duty liability.
What happens if I don't pay stamp duty?
HMRC penalties start at £100 and escalate to 100% of the tax owed.
Can parents pay my stamp duty?
Yes. Gifted money doesn't affect FTB relief, but joint ownership triggers surcharges.
Eligibility & Status
Am I a first-time buyer for stamp duty?
Never owned property anywhere in the world? You may save up to £5,000.
Does inheritance affect stamp duty?
Inheriting property is SDLT-free, but it may trigger the surcharge on future purchases.
Can I claim a stamp duty refund?
You may reclaim the 5% surcharge if you sell your old home within 36 months.
Comparisons & Savings
Future & Planning
Quick Answers
How is stamp duty calculated?
Stamp duty uses a tiered system where different portions of the price are taxed at different rates. The first £125,000 is tax-free, with increasing rates applied to portions above this threshold.
When do I pay stamp duty?
Stamp duty must be paid within 14 days of completion. Your solicitor typically handles the payment from funds held from the transaction.
Who pays stamp duty - buyer or seller?
The buyer pays stamp duty, not the seller. When you sell a property, you don't pay stamp duty, though you may owe Capital Gains Tax on any profit.
Am I a first-time buyer for stamp duty?
You're a first-time buyer if you've never owned property anywhere in the world. This includes inherited property, overseas property, and property owned as a child.
Do I pay the second home surcharge?
You pay the 5% surcharge if you'll own more than one property after completion. This includes buy-to-let, second homes, and inherited shares over 50%.