New changes come into effect from January 2025 where online platforms, such as eBay and Airbnb, will start sharing some user sales and personal data with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
Although these reporting requirements have caused concern, HMRC have confirmed that there are no changes to the tax rules for someone selling unwanted possessions online.
Angie MacDonald, who is HMRC’s Second Permanent Secretary and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said: “We cannot be clearer – if you are not trading and just occasionally sell unwanted items online – there is no tax due.”
HMRC have advised that anyone who sold at least 30 items or earned roughly £1,700, or provided a paid-for service, on a website or app in 2024 will be contacted by the digital platform in January to say their sales data and some personal information will be sent to HMRC due to new legal obligations.
This does not mean that an individual automatically needs to complete a tax return. However, if the following applies then you would likely need to register for self assessment (if you are not already registered) and pay tax.
-Buying goods for resale or making goods with the intention of selling them at a profit; or
-Offering a service through a digital platform – such as delivery driving or letting out a holiday home; and
-You generate a total income before deducting expenses of more than £1,000.
If you are concerned about whether you are likely to need to register for self assessment or pay tax, give us a call and we will be happy to help you.
See: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/no-tax-changes-for-online-sellers
UK businesses are facing a “cost of business crisis”, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Its new cost-stack calculator shows government policy alone has pushed up an average firm's expenses by 70% over the past decade, adding roughly £827,000 a year in costs for a typical mid-sized business. About a quarter of the rise stems from the increase in employer National Insurance contributions, with the higher minimum wage and mandatory pension auto-enrolment also major contributors.
Under Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax, sole traders and landlords with income of more than £50,000 have been required to keep digital records and send quarterly updates to HMRC since 6 April 2026.