Capital Gains Tax Calculator UK 2026
The first £3,000 of capital gains is tax-free in 2026 (Annual Exempt Amount). Above that you pay 18% if the gain falls in the basic-rate band or 24% in the higher or additional rate band — for both shares and residential property. Source: HMRC 2026.
Profit from the sale (proceeds minus original cost)
Both types share the same rates (18%/24%) since Autumn Budget 2024
Capital gains stack on top of other income
CGT · 2025/26 · HMRC rates · Annual Exempt Amount £3,000
Capital Gains Tax Due (2025/26)
£3,164
Effective CGT rate: 15.8% of total gain
CGT Breakdown
| Band | Rate | Gain | Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Exempt Amount | 0% | £3,000 | £0.00 |
| Basic rate band | 18% | £15,270 | £2,749 |
| Higher / additional rate band | 24% | £1,730 | £415 |
| Total CGT | £3,164 | ||
Ways to reduce CGT
- Use your annual exempt amount (£3,000) — it cannot be carried forward
- Transfer assets to a spouse or civil partner before selling (both get the AEA)
- Hold assets in an ISA or pension — gains are sheltered from CGT
- Offset capital losses from other disposals in the same or earlier tax years
CGT for Common Scenarios (2026)
Examples based on a £10,000–£50,000 gain at various salary levels. Annual Exempt Amount = £3,000.
| Gain | Salary | CGT Due |
|---|---|---|
| £10,000 | £30,000 | £1260.00 |
| £10,000 | £50,000 | £1680.00 |
| £25,000 | £35,000 | £3660.00 |
| £50,000 | £60,000 | £11280.00 |
| £10,000 | £12,570 | £1260.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Capital Gains Tax do I pay in 2026?
The first £3,000 of capital gains in 2026 is tax-free (Annual Exempt Amount). Above that, the rate is 18% if the gain falls within the basic-rate band, or 24% if it falls within the higher or additional rate band. Since the Autumn Budget 2024, residential property and other assets (shares, funds, etc.) share the same rates.
What is the Capital Gains Tax Annual Exempt Amount for 2026?
The Annual Exempt Amount (AEA) is £3,000 for 2026. This means the first £3,000 of net gains in the tax year is tax-free. It cannot be carried forward to the next tax year — use it or lose it. The AEA was cut from £6,000 in 2024/25 and from £12,300 in 2022/23.
Do I pay CGT on my main home?
Usually no. If the property has been your only or main residence throughout your ownership, Private Residence Relief (PRR) covers the full gain. If you have let the property, used it for business, or it was not always your main home, part of the gain may be taxable. The final 9 months of ownership always qualifies for PRR regardless.
When do I need to report and pay CGT on property?
If you sell a UK residential property and CGT is due, you must report and pay within 60 days of completion using HMRC's UK Property Return online service. For other assets (shares, etc.), you report and pay via Self Assessment — the deadline is 31 January following the end of the tax year.
How are capital gains taxed if I have a low salary?
Capital gains are stacked on top of your other income to determine the rate. If your salary is £25,000, you have approximately £22,270 of basic-rate band remaining (£50,270 minus £25,000 salary minus £3,000 AEA). Gains within that £22,270 are taxed at 18%; gains above it are taxed at 24%.
Can I offset capital losses against gains?
Yes. Capital losses from other disposals in the same tax year are deducted from gains before applying the Annual Exempt Amount. Unused losses can be carried forward to future tax years (you must report them to HMRC within 4 years). You cannot offset capital losses against income.
Are ISA investments subject to CGT?
No. Gains and income from assets held inside a Stocks & Shares ISA are completely free from Capital Gains Tax. There is no limit on the gain — only on how much you can contribute each year (£20,000 per person for 2026). Gains on assets outside the ISA are subject to CGT.