Answers · UK 2025/26

How much capital gains tax do I pay on £30,000 profit?

On a £30,000 gain in 2026/27, the first £3,000 is tax-free under the annual exempt amount, leaving £27,000 taxable. A basic-rate taxpayer pays 18% and a higher-rate taxpayer 24% on most assets -- £4,860 to £6,480 depending on your income.

Last updated: 10 July 2026Last reviewed: 10 July 2026How we verify

Full answer

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) for 2026/27 has an annual exempt amount of just £3,000. On a £30,000 gain, £27,000 is taxable. The rate depends on where the gain sits when stacked on top of your income: 18% within the basic-rate band and 24% above it, for both residential property and other assets such as shares, since the rates were equalised in October 2024. Worked example: a higher-rate taxpayer with a £30,000 gain pays 24% x £27,000 = £6,480. A basic-rate taxpayer with sufficient unused basic-rate band pays 18% x £27,000 = £4,860, though in practice a gain this size often straddles both bands once stacked on income, producing a blended rate. CGT is reported and paid via Self Assessment, except for UK residential property gains, which must be reported and paid within 60 days of completion. Married couples and civil partners can transfer an asset between them before selling to use both £3,000 exempt amounts, sheltering £6,000 of gain in total. Use the Capital Gains Tax calculator to work out your exact liability.