💷 Claiming an SDLT Refund: Sold Your Old Home Within 36 Months?

When buying a new main residence before selling your previous one, many homeowners are hit with the higher rate of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) – an unwelcome extra cost. However, if you sell your old main home within 36 months, you could be eligible for a refund of the higher rate SDLT. Here’s everything you need to know.

🏠 Why Did You Pay the Higher Rate SDLT?

HMRC charges the higher rate SDLT on additional properties. So, if you owned two homes – even temporarily – at the time of purchasing your new residence, the higher rate is applied.

Even if your intention was to sell your old home, you still get charged unless it’s already sold at the time of purchase.

💰 When Can You Claim an SDLT Refund?

You can claim a refund if:

• You paid the higher rate SDLT when buying your new main residence
• You sell your previous main residence within 36 months of the new purchase

🗓️ What’s the Deadline to Claim?

You must submit your refund claim:

• Within 12 months of selling your previous home
  OR
• Within 12 months of the SDLT filing date – whichever is later

📝 How to Claim Your SDLT Refund

You can claim online through HMRC or by post. You’ll need:

• SDLT transaction reference number
• Details of the property you sold and the one you bought
• Dates of both transactions
• Bank details for the refund

It’s a good idea to keep hold of your completion statements and land registry documents – they’ll make the process quicker and smoother.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the deadline – many forget to apply in time
• Not realising they qualify – especially when the old home is sold months later
• Wrongly assuming buy-to-lets qualify – this refund only applies to main residences

🧾 Need Help With Your Claim?

It’s your money – don’t leave it with HMRC! Whether you’re unsure if you qualify or want someone to take the stress off your hands, we’re here to help.