Capital Gains Tax Calculator
Enter the details based on one average customer.
The calculator applies to individuals.
It assumes you have not used your annual exemption on any other disposals.
It calculates CGT due ignoring any losses brought forward or additional reliefs that may apply to particular disposals such as Entrepreneurs' relief or any form of rollover relief.
CGT is payable at 24% for higher rate tax payers and 18% for basic rate taxpayers.
Understanding Capital Gains Tax in Bedford
Capital gains tax (CGT) applies whenever you dispose of an asset and make a profit. Common disposals include selling property, shares, or valuable personal possessions. For Bedford residents, understanding the gain, available reliefs and current HMRC allowances can help you plan and manage your CGT liability effectively. For the 2026/27 tax year, the annual exempt amount for individuals is £3,000.
For UK residential property, CGT is generally charged at 18% for gains falling within the basic-rate band and 24% for gains falling within the higher-rate band. Your actual liability depends on your taxable income, gain, allowable costs, losses and any applicable reliefs.
Examples and Scenarios
– Example 1: Selling a Residential Property in Bedford
If you sell a residential property in Bedford for £350,000 that you originally purchased for £250,000, your initial gain is £100,000 before deducting allowable costs, losses, reliefs and the annual exempt amount. If the gain falls within the higher-rate CGT band, the applicable rate is 24%, rather than 28%.
– Example 2: Selling Shares
If you sell shares worth £50,000 that you bought for £30,000, your gain is £20,000. After considering the £3,000 annual exempt amount for 2026/27, £17,000 could be taxable before considering any available losses or reliefs. The applicable CGT rate depends on your income and tax position.
Common Questions from Bedford Taxpayers
Q: Can I reduce my CGT liability?
A: Yes. You can use your £3,000 annual exempt amount, offset eligible capital losses and claim applicable reliefs. Allowable costs such as certain buying, selling and improvement costs can also reduce a property gain.
Q: How do I report CGT?
A: Gains can be reported through your Self Assessment tax return or, where eligible, HMRC’s online Capital Gains Tax service. If you sell UK residential property and CGT is due, you generally need to report and pay it within 60 days of completion.
Interactive Tools to Plan Your Capital Gains Tax
Use our Capital Gains Tax Calculator to estimate your potential tax liability quickly. Our calculator can provide a useful starting point, but your final CGT position may depend on factors such as allowable costs, losses, income and tax reliefs. Additionally, consider exploring our CGT quiz to test your understanding and learn practical strategies to reduce CGT in Bedford.
Next Steps and Support
If you are unsure about your CGT position, with Cowley Holmes Accountants, our Bedford-based tax advisors can guide you through property disposals, share sales, allowable costs, reliefs and HMRC reporting requirements. Click the button below to arrange a consultation.
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