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HMRC Clarifies Post‑Christmas Online Sales: Most Unwanted Gifts Won’t Be Taxed

The tax authority points people to its online checker to confirm any filing needs.

Overview

  • HMRC used X and Facebook this week to remind people that occasional sales of personal items like used clothes or old electronics are not taxed as income.
  • People earning more than £1,000 from trading or providing services must register for Self Assessment and complete a tax return.
  • Capital Gains Tax can apply when a single item or a set of items sells for more than £6,000.
  • Online platforms now report sellers with 30 or more items in a year to HMRC, which does not automatically mean tax is owed.
  • Buying goods to resell, making items to sell, or offering services through digital platforms may count as trading if income exceeds the £1,000 allowance.