Answers · UK 2025/26
Is selling personal items online (eBay, Vinted) taxable?
Selling personal possessions you no longer need is not usually taxable as it is not treated as trading income. However, if you buy goods with the intention of reselling for profit, that activity may be subject to income tax.
Full answer
HMRC distinguishes between disposing of personal possessions (not taxable as income) and trading (taxable). If you occasionally sell old clothes, furniture, or personal items on platforms like eBay or Vinted, this is generally not considered trading and is not subject to income tax. However, if you buy items specifically to sell for profit, sell regularly, or operate in a business-like manner, HMRC may treat it as a trade, in which case profits are taxable as self-employment income and must be declared. Capital gains tax could theoretically apply to the sale of valuable personal possessions (chattels) worth over £6,000, but most second-hand items sold online fall well below this threshold. From January 2024, online platforms are required to report seller earnings to HMRC, giving HMRC greater visibility of online selling activity. If you earn more than £1,000 per year from selling, the £1,000 trading allowance may exempt you but you should still consider reporting via Self Assessment.
This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.