Spouse Property transfers and SDLT?

Spouse Property transfers and SDLT?

9:24 AM, 17th March 2020, About 4 years ago 12

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I am led to believe spouse property transfers are Capital Gains exempt. I also understand if the property transfer is NIL, there is no SDLT payable.

However, if the property is mortgaged, SDLT is payable on the amount of mortgage transferred. i.e. If property is owned 1/99 and you want to transfer 49% making ownership now 50/50. 49% of mortgage would be subject to SDLT.

I understand SDLT additional dwellings does not apply to spouse transfers.

Please correct me if any of the above is incorrect. For example, a £400,000 mortgage @ 49% transfer would be £196,000 transfer, so would attract SDLT of £1,420.

So finally, here’s the question, assuming SDLT is transaction based; Could I transfer 25% today and the remaining 24% tomorrow. Therefore, two transactions each below SDLT £125,000 threshold meaning no SDLT due. This would be achieved by means of Deed of Trust.

I have several properties to transfer, but I am discounting the multiple dwellings relief SDLT as the remaining properties do not attract SDLT, and the multiple dwellings relief has a minimum rate of 1%

Previous ownership structure of 1/99 was used as I was a high earner. This is no longer the case so need to level the playing field for tax purposes.

Previously Form 17 filed with HMRC. I understand as soon as you change legal/beneficiary ownership this nulls Form 17 immediately. Can I then assume I don’t need to file new Form 17 to reinstate the default 50/50 rule, but maybe sensible to note on next Self-Assessment?

Many thanks

Michael


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Comments

Seething Landlord

0:02 AM, 19th March 2020, About 4 years ago

Reply to the comment left by michaelwgroves at 18/03/2020 - 19:01
Form 17 is notice to HMRC that spouses have varied their share of beneficial interest in a property and wish to be taxed accordingly. I believe they will normally wish to see documentary evidence in support and they warn that the stated share must reflect the true ownership.

michaelwgroves

11:26 AM, 24th March 2020, About 4 years ago

I've just spoke to HMRC SDLT department, they have confirmed as the mortgage is already in joint names, amending legal ownership does not give rise to SDLT as both parties are already jointly liable for mortgage. No debt is transferred.
If however spouse was not previously named on mortgage this would give rise to SDLT.

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